buffer zone

noun

1. a neutral zone or area between two potentially hostile nations, designed to prevent any overt acts of aggression.
2. any area serving to mitigate or neutralize potential conflict.

buffer zone

noun

1. an area lying between two states and providing each with protection from the other

Word History and Origins

Origin of buffer zone¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

The new plan creates a buffer zone between housing and industry and attempts to blunt gentrification with affordable housing policies.

From Voice of San Diego

It would have blocked new permits for oil and gas wells and required wells be surrounded by a 2,500-foot buffer zone.

From Voice of San Diego

Chester points to the Netherlands, where local governments created the Room for the River initiative to increase buffer zones around rivers and change the way flood-prone areas are used.

From MIT Technology Review

The Hanford Reach National Monument, in eastern Washington, is a wildlife refuge on a corner of the country’s biggest nuclear clean-up, where hikers can visit the buffer zone away from the test site.

From Outside Online

The buffer zone would protect civilians, Syrian rebels, and Kurds against ISIS assaults.

From The Daily Beast

Levin is calling for a Turkish buffer zone inside Syria, protected by a U.S.-led no fly zone.

From The Daily Beast

The Kurds entered a buffer zone on the Turkish border and in the melee at least four protestor were wounded.

From The Daily Beast

A 112-mile U.N. Buffer Zone, known as the Green Line, separates the two areas.

From The Daily Beast

So maintaining a buffer zone ruled by the Kim dynasty satisfies all of Beijing's concerns.

From The Daily Beast