life buoy

• Dispositif flottant, généralement en forme d'anneau ou de gilet, destiné à maintenir une personne à la surface de l'eau et à prévenir la noyade, utilisé comme équipement de sécurité lors de la natation ou en bateau.

A flotation device, typically ring-shaped or jacket-like, designed to keep a person afloat in water and prevent drowning, used as a safety aid in swimming or boating.

1. Safety deviceA2formal

   A floatation device designed to keep a person afloat in water, used for rescue or safety.

   bouée de sauvetage

   • The sailor threw a life buoy to the man overboard.
   • Life buoys are placed along the pier for emergencies.
   • She grabbed the life buoy and was pulled to safety.

2. Metaphorical supportB2informal

   Something that provides help or relief in a difficult situation.

   bouée de sauvetage

   • His friendship was a life buoy during her depression.
   • The loan acted as a life buoy for the struggling business.
   • That advice was a life buoy in my time of need.