buffer¹ /bufˈər/

1. A mechanical apparatus for deadening the force of a concussion, as in railway carriages or at the end of a railway line
2. A ship's fender
3. Something or someone that acts as a protection against impact, shock or damage
4. A fellow, esp a dull or ineffectual fellow (as in old buffer)
5. A boatswain's mate (nautical)
6. A substance or mixture which opposes change of hydrogen-ion concentration in a solution (chem)
7. A temporary store into which data can go while awaiting transfer eg from computer to printer, acting as an adjusting mechanism between processes of different speeds (computing)

1. To protect against shock (lit and figurative)
2. To store (data) in a buffer (computing)
3. To add a buffer to (chem)

To use, or be used as, a buffer

buffˈered adjective

buffer state or buffer zone noun

A neutral country or zone lying between two others whose relations are or may become strained

buffer stock noun

Stock held in reserve to minimize the effect of price fluctuations or unreliable deliveries

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