Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
buffer-state
noun
/ˈbʌfər steɪt/
Definition
A buffer-state is a country that lies between two or more larger, more powerful countries and serves to prevent conflict between them by acting as a neutral zone.
Examples
- During the Cold War, several nations acted as buffer-states to reduce the risk of direct conflict between superpowers.
- Sweden has historically been considered a buffer-state in European politics.
Meaning
The term describes a geopolitical area that provides a space or barrier to diffuse tensions between rival nations.
Synonyms
- neutral zone
- buffer region
- intermediary state
