# buoyancy

/ˈbɔɪənsi/ (US) · /bˈɔɪənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/buoyancy
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the ability of an object to float in a liquid or gas. It is the force that pushes an object upward when it is submerged.

For teachers: the ability of an object to float in a fluid, resulting from the upward force exerted by the fluid. Often used to describe the physical property of a material or the financial stability of an economy.

## Examples

- The boat has good buoyancy and stays high in the water.
- The ship's hull is designed to provide enough buoyancy to prevent it from sinking even if the cargo compartment fills with water.
- Economists often monitor the buoyancy of the housing market to determine whether a recovery is sustainable or merely a temporary fluctuation in consumer confidence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.