1. a short burst of air, smoke, or steam
2. a light pastry filled with cream or other filling

1. to breathe out in short bursts
2. to swell or cause to swell
3. to praise excessively
Usage: informal

Examples

• A puff of smoke rose from the chimney.
• She took a puff from her inhaler.
• The bakery sells cream puffs and eclairs.
• He was puffing heavily after running up the stairs.
• The wind puffed out the sails.
• Her cheeks puffed up when she blew the balloon.
• The magazine puffed the new restaurant in its review.