[boo-ee, boi] 
| 1. | Nautical. a distinctively shaped and marked float, sometimes carrying a signal or signals, anchored to mark a channel, anchorage, navigational hazard, etc., or to provide a mooring place away from the shore. |
| 2. | a life buoy. |
| 3. | to keep afloat or support by or as if by a life buoy; keep from sinking (often fol. by up): The life jacket buoyed her up until help arrived. |
| 4. | Nautical. to mark with a buoy or buoys. |
| 5. | to sustain or encourage (often fol. by up): Her courage was buoyed by the doctor's assurances. |
| 6. | to float or rise by reason of lightness. |
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