Cuffee (Jamaica)

Cuffee, also spelled Cuffe or Koffi, is a name and term used in Jamaica, referencing people of Akan origin. It is derived from the Akan day name Kofi, given to males born on a Friday. During the period of the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans, particularly those from the Gold Coast (present-day Ghana), often retained or were given Akan day names within the plantation communities.

The term "Cuffee" could be used as a generic designation for enslaved men, particularly those of Akan descent, similar to how "Quashee" (Kwasi, for Sunday-born males) and "Quamina" (Kwame, for Saturday-born males) were employed. It may also appear as a given name in historical records relating to enslaved individuals in Jamaica.

While primarily referring to enslaved men of Akan origin, usage may have broadened over time to become associated with Jamaican Maroon communities, many of whom had Akan ancestry. Furthermore, the term might occasionally appear in genealogical records or historical documents pertaining to individuals or places with connections to this history.