Cur"few (k?r"f?), n. [OE. courfew, curfu, fr. OF. cuevrefu, covrefeu, F. couvre-feu; covrir to cover + feu fire, fr. L. focus fireplace, hearth. See Cover, and Focus.]
1.
The ringing of an evening bell, originally a signal to the inhabitants to cover fires, extinguish lights, and retire to rest, -- instituted by William the Conqueror; also, the bell itself.
He begins at curfew, and walks till the first cock.
Shak.
The village curfew, as it tolled profound.
Campbell.
2.
A utensil for covering the fire.
[Obs.]
For pans, pots, curfews, counters and the like.
Bacon.
© Webster 1913.