buff

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Computing Slang

n. a change in a game that makes a character or weapon stronger.

n. an adjustment to game mechanics that increases the power or effectiveness of a specific element.

“The latest game update gave the archer a significant buff to its speed.”

“Players complained that the recent buff to the heavy tank class made competitive matches feel unbalanced and repetitive.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to rub something with a soft cloth to make it shine.

v. to polish a surface using a soft material or a mechanical tool to achieve a high gloss.

“He spent the afternoon buffing the car until it looked brand new.”

“The jeweler carefully buffed the silver platter to remove the tarnish that had accumulated over decades of storage.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

adj. having a strong, fit body with well-developed muscles.

adj. possessing a physically fit, toned, and muscular physique.

“He has been going to the gym every day and is looking very buff.”

“The lead actor spent six months training with a professional athlete to ensure he looked sufficiently buff for the superhero role.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Informal

n. used in the phrase 'in the buff' to mean wearing no clothes.

n. the state of being naked; almost exclusively used in the prepositional phrase 'in the buff'.

“The children were running around in the buff after their bath.”

“The artist's early sketches often depicted subjects in the buff, focusing on the natural contours of the human form without the distraction of drapery.”