buzz

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a confusion of activity and gossip

   the buzz of excitement was so great that a formal denial was issued

2. 2
   noun

   sound of rapid vibration

   the buzz of a bumble bee

3. 3
   verb

   to call with a buzzer

   I buzzed the servant.

4. 4
   verb

   to fly low

   Planes buzzed over the crowds in the square.

5. 5
   verb

   to make a buzzing sound

   Bees were buzzing around the hive.

6. 6
   verb

   to be noisy with activity

   This office is buzzing with activity.

7. 7
   noun

   A continuous humming noise, as of bees; a confused murmur, as of general conversation in low tones.

   In the steady buzz of flies the homeward-bound agent was lying flushed and insensible[.]

8. 8
   noun

   A rush or feeling of energy or excitement; a feeling of slight intoxication.

   Still feeling the buzz from the coffee, he pushed through the last of the homework.

Etymology

From Middle English *bussen (suggested by Middle English bussyng (“buzzing”)), of onomatopoeic origin. Cognate with Scots bizz (“to buzz”). Compare Middle English bunning (“buzzing”), Middle English hossing (“buzzing”), Middle English bissen (“to hush”).