putoff

American  

[poot-awf, -of] / ˈpʊtˌɔf, -ˌɒf /

noun

1. an act or instance of putting off.

2. a delaying, postponing, or avoiding of something.

3. an expressed excuse or evasion; demur.

   She responded with a polite but firm putoff.

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Etymology

Origin of putoff

First recorded in 1540–50; noun use of verb phrase put off

Example Sentences

When passing Malden he was hailed from the fort, but as he paid no attention, Major Putoff fired a shot to make the vessel heave-to and leave the mail.

From Project Gutenberg