English Reference
noun · verb

buzz

n. · v.
US /ˈbəz/ UK /bˈʌz/ buzz UK spelling buzzes

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.a continuous, low humming sound like the one made by a bee or a machine.

    n.a continuous, low-frequency humming or vibrating sound, typically produced by insects or electrical equipment.

    Simple

    I could hear the constant buzz of the air conditioner in the background.

    In context

    The steady buzz of the high-voltage wires was the only sound breaking the silence of the rural landscape.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a feeling of excitement or a lot of talk and interest about something new.

    n.a state of intense public interest, excitement, or speculative conversation regarding a specific topic or event.

    Simple

    There is a lot of buzz about the new movie coming out next month.

    In context

    The marketing team successfully generated a significant buzz ahead of the product launch, ensuring a massive turnout on the first day.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a sudden feeling of energy, pleasure, or being slightly drunk.

    n.a physical or emotional sensation of euphoria, energy, or mild intoxication.

    Simple

    She gets a real buzz from performing on stage in front of an audience.

    In context

    Adrenaline junkies often seek the specific buzz associated with extreme sports like skydiving or base jumping.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to make a low, continuous humming sound.

    v.to produce a low, continuous, vibrating sound; often used intransitively to describe insects or machinery.

    Simple

    Bees were buzzing around the flowers in the garden.

    In context

    The intercom began to buzz insistently, signaling that the delivery driver was waiting at the main gate.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to be very busy and full of energy or people moving around.

    v.to be filled with a sense of activity, excitement, or industrious energy.

    Simple

    The kitchen was buzzing with chefs preparing for the big dinner.

    In context

    The entire city was buzzing with anticipation as the national team prepared for the championship final.

  6. 06 C1 Advanced InformalTechnical Aviation

    v.to fly a plane very fast and low over a place.

    v.to fly an aircraft at a very low altitude over a specific area or person, often as a warning or for excitement.

    Simple

    The fighter jets decided to buzz the airfield during the celebration.

    In context

    The pilot was disciplined for choosing to buzz the control tower at high speed during the unauthorized victory lap.

  7. 07 B1 Intermediate

    v.to call someone or open a door by pressing a button that makes a sound.

    v.to signal or summon someone, or to release a door lock, by using an electronic buzzer.

    Simple

    Can you buzz me into the building when I arrive?

    In context

    The receptionist will buzz you through the security doors once you have signed the visitor log.

    Usage

    Often used with 'in' when referring to letting someone into a building.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated