buoyant

/ˈbɔɪ.ənt/

Group 24Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Able to stay afloat; cheerful and optimistic; of an economy or market: characterized by rising prices
GRE

Example in Context

Consumer confidence remained buoyant despite the geopolitical uncertainty, sustaining retail spending levels that surprised analysts.

Synonyms

upbeatcheerfullively

Etymology

Characterized by the ability to float or be cheerful.

  • buoy- (French) — to float
  • -ant (Latin) — characterized by

Memory Aid

🐜Sounds like “boy ant

A boy riding a BUOYANT ANT that bounces on water like a trampoline!

Visual Association

🎈A colorful balloon floating high in the sky, symbolizing lightness and cheer.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “buoyant” mean on the GRE?

buoyant (adjective) means “Able to stay afloat; cheerful and optimistic; of an economy or market: characterized by rising prices”. Consumer confidence remained buoyant despite the geopolitical uncertainty, sustaining retail spending levels that surprised analysts.

How to remember “buoyant” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “buoyant” sounds like “boy ant”. A boy riding a BUOYANT ANT that bounces on water like a trampoline!

What are synonyms for “buoyant”?

Common synonyms: upbeat, cheerful, lively.