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Buoy: meaning, definitions and examples

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buoy

 

[ ˈbɔɪ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in the sea

A buoy is a floating object that is anchored to the bottom of the sea and is used as a navigation aid or a warning device.

Synonyms

beacon, float, marker

Examples of usage

  • The sailors relied on the buoy to guide their ship safely into the harbor.
  • The buoy marked the location of the underwater rocks.
Context #2 | Verb

emotional state

To buoy someone up means to support or uplift them, especially when they are feeling down or discouraged.

Synonyms

cheer up, encourage, uplift

Examples of usage

  • Her kind words buoyed him up during a difficult time.
  • The encouragement from his friends buoyed his spirits.

Translations

Translations of the word "buoy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 boia

🇮🇳 तैरता संकेतक

🇩🇪 Boje

🇮🇩 pelampung

🇺🇦 буй

🇵🇱 boja

🇯🇵 浮標 (ふひょう)

🇫🇷 bouée

🇪🇸 boya

🇹🇷 şamandıra

🇰🇷 부표

🇸🇦 عوامة

🇨🇿 bóje

🇸🇰 bója

🇨🇳 浮标 (fúbiāo)

🇸🇮 boja

🇮🇸 bauja

🇰🇿 буй

🇬🇪 ბუი

🇦🇿 boy

🇲🇽 boya

Etymology

The word 'buoy' originated from the Middle Dutch word 'boeye' which means 'a floating object'. Buoys have been used for centuries as navigational aids to help ships find their way safely through the waters. Over time, the meaning of 'buoy' has expanded to also include the idea of providing support or uplift, reflecting its metaphorical use in emotional contexts.

See also: buoyant, buoyed, buoys.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,122, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.