sb. north. dial. [perh. from CLAW v., with echoic modification, representing the ‘buffing’ sound; but cf. L. colaphus in same sense.] A blow with the palm of the hand (esp. on the ear or cheek).
Hence Cluff v., to strike with the palm of the hand, to cuff.
1804. R. Anderson, Cumbld. Ball., 104. Rob Lowson … brong snift’ring Gwordie a cluff.
1825–79. Jamieson, s.v., Roxb. … ‘I’ll cluff your lugs.’
