VocabDictionary

buffer

/ˈbʌf.ər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person or thing that prevents incompatible or antagonistic people or things from coming into contact.

Example Sentences:
  • “The forest acts as a buffer between the residential area and the industrial zone.”
  • “He acted as a buffer between his feuding parents.”
2.noun

A temporary memory area in a computer where data is stored while it is being moved or processed.

Example Sentences:
  • “The video is pausing because the buffer is empty.”
  • “Increasing the buffer size can improve streaming performance.”
3.verb

To lessen or moderate the impact of something; to protect from harm or shock.

Example Sentences:
  • “The government introduced subsidies to buffer the economy against inflation.”
  • “The thick walls help to buffer the noise from the busy street.”
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “buffer”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originates from the mid-18th century, likely from the Middle English 'buff' (to strike or buffet), referring to a device or material used to soften the impact of a collision. The computing sense emerged in the mid-20th century, metaphorically extending the idea of a 'cushion' to data storage.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'buffer' as a 'cushion' that stops a 'buffet' (blow) from hitting you directly.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “buffer”

1. What is the meaning of “buffer” in English?

In English, buffer (noun) is defined as: “A person or thing that prevents incompatible or antagonistic people or things from coming into contact.”.

2. How do you use “buffer” in a sentence?

“The forest acts as a buffer between the residential area and the industrial zone.”

3. What are English synonyms of “buffer”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “buffer”?

Originates from the mid-18th century, likely from the Middle English 'buff' (to strike or buffet), referring to a device or material used to soften the impact of a collision. The computing sense emerged in the mid-20th century, metaphorically extending the idea of a 'cushion' to data storage.