English Reference
noun · verb · adjective

buff

n. · v. · adj.
US /ˈbəf/ UK /bˈʌf/ buff UK spelling buff's, buff's, buffed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.someone who is very interested in a particular subject and knows a lot about it.

    n.an enthusiastic and knowledgeable admirer or aficionado of a specific subject.

    Simple

    My uncle is a real history buff who can name every king of England.

    In context

    As a dedicated film buff, she spent her weekends scouring independent cinemas for rare 35mm prints of mid-century noir.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Slang Computing

    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.

    Simple

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

    In context

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

    nerf
  3. 03 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

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

    polishshineburnish
    scuffdull
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

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

  5. 05 C1 Advanced 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'.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated