n. & v.
n. 1 an anchored float serving as a navigation mark or to show reefs etc. 2 a lifebuoy.
v.tr. 1 (usu. foll. by up) a keep afloat. b sustain the courage or spirits of (a person etc.); uplift, encourage. 2 (often foll. by out) mark with a buoy or buoys.
[ ME prob. f. MDu. bo(e)ye, ult. f. L boia collar f. Gk boeiai ox-hides ]