Definition

Noun: A life buoy is a life-saving device designed to keep a person afloat in water. It is typically a ring made of buoyant material that can be thrown to someone in distress.

Usage

A life buoy is used in maritime emergencies to provide immediate flotation assistance. It is often stored on ships, docks, or beaches.

Examples

• The sailor quickly threw the life buoy to the man who had fallen overboard.
• Coast guard regulations require a life buoy to be placed at regular intervals along the pier.
• The bright orange life buoy is clearly visible in the water.

Advanced Usage

• "To deploy a life buoy": To throw or place a life buoy into the water for use.
  • The crew was trained to deploy a life buoy within seconds of a "man overboard" alarm.
• "Life buoy station": A designated location where life buoys are stored and ready for use.
  • Please familiarize yourself with the nearest life buoy station when on deck.

Variants and Related Words

• Life preserver (noun): A general term for any device designed to save a person from drowning. A life buoy is one type of life preserver.
• Life ring (noun): Another common name for a life buoy, emphasizing its ring shape.
• Buoyancy aid (noun): A broader category of equipment that provides buoyancy, which may include life buoys.

Synonyms

• Life ring
• Life preserver (in this specific form)
• Rescue buoy

Related Phrases

• "To throw someone a life buoy": Literally, to throw the device. Figuratively, to provide crucial help to someone in a difficult situation.
  • His friend's loan was like throwing him a life buoy when his business was failing.

Noun

1. a life preserver in the form of a ring of buoyant material