The word "curfew" refers to a regulation or law that restricts people from being in public places during certain hours, typically at night. This is often implemented to maintain public safety or order. For example, curfews can be set for minors to ensure they return home by a specified time to avoid potential dangers or disturbances.
The word "curfew" comes from the Old French term "cuevrefeu," which means "cover fire." This referred to a time when household fires were meant to be extinguished for safety reasons, particularly in medieval times. It is derived from the Latin "cumbere," meaning "to cover," and "focare," meaning "to make a fire."