It appears on this MB lots, you have seen it :
“I’m a movie buff.”
“I consider myself a history buff.”
Just where did the term “buff” come from ? Has it always meant what it does in the above context ? Or is this in fact a roque slang term ? Hmmmmmm . . . .
Any ideas SD people ?
“Solos Dios basta” . . . but a little pizza won’t hurt.
This might help a little; it’s from the American Heritage Dictionary:
buff–one who is enthusiastic and knowledgable about a given subject. (from the buff-colored uniform worn by New York volunteer firemen at one time)
My WAG–a fireman could be considered a person in authority, so people who were experts in a field were called “buffs” as a salute/association with the old-time firemen.
Maybe they like pursuing their hobbies in the buff?
Thanks, Frolix, that did help . . . but it is legit ? I still seek others help.
“Solos Dios basta” . . . but a little pizza won’t hurt.
“Buff” is the name of a color. Sort of light brownish-pink, I think, like Caucasian skin tone?
Awww, I had this nifty little theory going about “buff” being a variation of the British “boffin” - a scientist - and by extension, a know-it-all.
Yes, thanks, frolix - it’s a great site and went straight into my reference bookmarks.
Wow! That site is bookmarked now.
Thanks, frolix.