buffet 1
— buffeter , n.
/buf"it/ , n. , v. , buffeted, buffeting .
n.
1. a blow, as with the hand or fist.
2. a violent shock or concussion.
v.t.
3. to strike, as with the hand or fist.
4. to strike against or push repeatedly: The wind buffeted the house.
5. to contend against; battle.
v.i.
6. to struggle with blows of hand or fist.
7. to force one's way by a fight, struggle, etc.
[ 1175-1225; ME buffe a blow + -et -ET ]
Syn. 3. slap, cuff, box, hit, sock, wallop.
buffet 2
/beuh fay", boo-/ or, esp. for adj., /booh"fay/ ; Brit. /buf"it/ , n.
1. a sideboard or cabinet for holding china, table linen, etc.
2. a meal laid out on a table or sideboard so that guests may serve themselves.
3. a counter, bar, or the like, for lunch or refreshments.
4. a restaurant containing such a counter or bar.
adj.
5. consisting of food, refreshments, etc., laid out on tables or buffets from which guests or customers serve themselves: a buffet supper; buffet service.
[ 1710-20; ]