Buoyed: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone or something lifts your spirits or makes you feel more positive.

• Her spirits were buoyed by the good news about her test results

When someone makes you feel happy and more hopeful.

• Listening to her favorite song always left her feeling uplifted

When someone gives you help or stands by you in a difficult time.

• She felt supported by her friends during the challenging period

When someone gives you confidence or motivates you to do something.

• His teacher encouraged him to apply for the scholarship

Typically used in a context where something is being kept afloat or lifted up, either physically or emotionally. Often implies a positive influence or uplifting feeling.

• She was buoyed by the positive feedback from her peers.
• The lifejacket buoyed him in the water.

Refers to being suspended or moving lightly on the surface of a liquid, or sometimes in the air. Can describe both physical or metaphorical states of lightness and ease.

• The balloon began to float up into the sky.
• She felt like she was floating on a cloud after hearing the good news.

Used to describe a slow and gradual movement, often by water or air currents, without any specific direction or control. Can be used metaphorically to describe lack of focus or direction in life.

• The boat began to drift away from the shore.
• After losing his job, he felt like he was drifting through life.

Describes staying in one place while in the air, or lingering close by without fully committing. Often used in contexts involving insects, drones, or uncertainty about a decision.

• The helicopter will hover above the target area.
• He tends to hover around the kitchen, waiting for the food to be ready.