The term 'FEMALE RUFF' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: REEVE (5 letters) and REE (3 letters). A REEVE is an official in a medieval English village who is responsible for maintaining law and order. The word is derived from the Old English term 'gerefa, ' which means 'REEVE.' A ree is a female ruff, which is a type of bird that is native to Europe and Asia. It is characterized by its large, white collar-like feathers around its neck.