noun
also pouff or pouffe ˈpüf
( -s )
Etymology: French pouf, of imitative origin
: something that is inflated or insubstantial: as
a. : puff 3b(3)
b. : a bouffant or fluffy part of a garment or clothing accessory
a taffeta pouf tacked on the back of a tight skirt — Harper's Bazaar
an ivory velours … trimmed with a pouf of fine black plumes — Hats
c.
(1) : a plumply upholstered usually circular backless couch or hassock : ottoman
(2) : puff 3b(4)
d. : an evanescent whiff (as of smoke) often accompanied by a muffled report
with a little pouf , the lights went out — Anne S. Mehdevi
— often used interjectionally to express extreme transience or suddenness of disappearance
if you offer less, pouf , he is gone — H.O.Storm