Cur'few, n.
(kûr'fû), n. [Also curfeu; O. Fr. carre-feu, cerre-feu, couvre-feu, from couvrir, to cover, and feu, fire.]
Sense 1. The ringing of a bell at nightfall, originally designed as a signal to the inhabitants to cover fires, extinguish lights, and retire to rest: the practice was instituted by William the Conqueror. “The village curfew, as it tolls profound.” Campbell.
He begins at curfew, and walks till the first cock. Shak.
Sense 2. A fire-cover; a fire-plate. [Obs.] “As for pans, pots, curfews, and the like.” Bacon.