Pronunciation: [bˈʌfɪtɪd] (IPA) 
Buffeted is a verb meaning to hit or strike repeatedly, usually with great force. The word is pronounced as /bʌfɪtɪd/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable. The "-et" at the end of the word is a common suffix used to form the past tense of verbs in English. The "buff" in buffeted likely comes from the Old French "buf" meaning to strike, which also gave us the word "buffalo" as a noun.
The term "buffeted" is a verb most commonly used in the form of "being buffeted" or "buffeting." It refers to the act of being struck or hit repeatedly, forcefully, or violently by strong gusts of wind or other external forces. When someone or something is buffeted, they undergo a series of blows or impacts, often resulting in a sense of instability, imbalance, or discomfort.
In the context of weather, being buffeted describes the experience of facing fierce winds that push, shake, or jostle someone or something, making it challenging to maintain a steady position or movement. It suggests a lack of control over one's physical presence due to the force exerted by the wind.
Beyond its meteorological meaning, "buffeted" may be used metaphorically to describe situations or individuals being subjected to recurring challenges or adversities. Just as wind buffets objects, an individual facing tumultuous circumstances may feel overwhelmed by successive hardships, encountering difficulties that leave them feeling unsettled or vulnerable.
Overall, "buffeted" conveys the idea of forces acting upon or impacting someone or something, often forcefully and repeatedly. Whether it refers to the clash of wind against a structure or the figurative struggles faced by an individual, it implies a sense of persistent confrontation and the potential for disruption or instability.
The word "buffeted" has its etymology tracing back to the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word "buffet", meaning a blow or strike. It comes from the verb "buffeter" which means to strike, hit, or cuff. The Old French term is believed to have been influenced by the Old Italian word "buffetto", which also means a slap or a blow. Both the French and Italian words can be traced back to the Latin word "buffetum", meaning a slap or a blow with the fist.
