1. (n.)tuft a bunch or cluster of small, usu. upright but flexible parts, as hair, feathers, flowers, or leaves, that are attached or close together at the base.
2. tuft a cluster of cut threads used decoratively on garments, upholstery, curtains, mattresses, etc.
6. tuft to draw together (a cushion, mattress, etc.) by passing a thread through at regular intervals, the depressions thus produced usu. being ornamented with tufts or buttons.
7. (v.i.)tuft to form into or grow in a tuft or tufts.
Etymology: (1350–1400; ME, var. of toft(e) < MF tofe, toffe, of uncert. orig.; E parasitic t as in graft1)
2. (noun)Tuft a cluster; a clump; as, a tuft of plants
3. (noun)Tuft a nobleman, or person of quality, especially in the English universities; -- so called from the tuft, or gold tassel, on the cap worn by them