buffer zone

American  

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.

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buffer zone British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of buffer zone

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

The military is trying to carve out a buffer zone inside Lebanon deep enough to put border communities beyond the militants’ reach.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

The Turkish authorities have so far avoided the term "buffer zone" but options under review include deploying more troops and expanding technological surveillance systems, the official added.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

That would likely resemble a previous 1974 nonaggression pact that established a demilitarized buffer zone between the two countries.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 10, 2025

Irom Abung, who once ran a water supply business in Churachandpur, now lives in a relief camp near a buffer zone.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2025

San Jose Mogote seems to have transplanted itself to Monte Alban, in the middle of the buffer zone.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann