n. & v.
--n.
1. a rejection of one who makes advances, proffers help or sympathy, shows interest or curiosity, makes a request, etc.
2 a repulse; a snub.
--v.tr. give a rebuff to.
Etymology: obs. F rebuffe(r) f. It. ribuffo, ribuffare, rabbuffo, rabbuffare (as RE-, buffo puff)