n.

1. an ionic compound that resists changes in its pH
2. an inclined metal frame at the front of a locomotive to clear the track;
   fender, cowcatcher, pilot
3. (computer science) a part of RAM used for temporary storage of data that is waiting to be sent to a device; used to compensate for differences in the rate of flow of data between components of a computer system;
   buffer storage, buffer store
4. a power tool used to buff surfaces;
   polisher
5. a cushion-like device that reduces shock due to contact;
   fender
6. an implement consisting of soft material mounted on a block; used for polishing (as in manicuring);
   buff

v.

1. add a buffer (a solution)
   
   • buffered saline solution for the eyes
2. protect from impact;
   cushion, soften
   
   • cushion the blow