buffeted
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbʌfɪtɪd/
KK: /ˈbʌfɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Damaged or harmed by being hit repeatedly, often by strong winds or forces.
Example
The trees were buffeted by the fierce storm, losing many branches.
Conversation
Did you see how the trees were buffeted by the wind yesterday?
Yeah, it was really intense!
I thought some of them might actually fall over.
Me too! It was a wild storm.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
battered
beaten
pounded
Antonyms
calm
gentle
stable
verb
Definition
To strike or hit repeatedly, often with force or violence, usually in a way that causes disturbance or damage.
Example
The strong winds buffeted the small boat as it struggled to stay afloat.
Tense Forms
Past: buffeted
Past Participle: buffeted
Conversation
Did you feel that storm last night?
Yeah, the wind really buffeted the windows.
I thought they were going to break!
Root Explanation
Buffeted comes from the Middle English 'buffet' (meaning to strike or hit), which in turn comes from the Old French 'bufet' (meaning a blow or a hit). The word 'buffeted' means to be struck repeatedly or to be tossed about by force, often used in the context of being battered by wind or waves.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'struck' ('buffet') repeatedly, which helps you remember that 'buffeted' means to be hit or tossed around.
Visually Confused Words
unbuffeted
unfeted
suffete