Curfew /(kûr"fū)/

Cur·few

Curfew

n.
  1. The ringing of an evening bell, originally a signal to the inhabitants to cover fires, extinguish lights, and retire to rest, -- instituted by William the Conqueror; also, the bell itself.
    He begins at curfew, and walks till the first cock.
    The village curfew, as it tolled profound.
    — Campbell.
  2. A utensil for covering the fire. [Obs.]
    For pans, pots, curfews, counters and the like.