What is a muff?

A muff is a type of handwarmer or hand covering that is typically made of fur or fabric and is worn around the hands to provide warmth and protection from the cold. Muffs were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries and were commonly worn by both men and women as a fashion accessory. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, muffs became a popular accessory for women's fashion, often made with luxurious materials such as velvet, silk, or fur. Today, muffs are still occasionally worn for special occasions or as a vintage fashion statement.