idea
A buffer is a mechanism in a system aggregating something before it gets processed, usually when the input has too much variability for what the output can efficiently process.
Examples of buffer include: buffers in streaming technology, storing some stream in advance in order to allow smooth playback in case of network latency ; dampers - which really are buffers of potential energy, absorbed or distributed - absorbing some of the terrain's variations ; or additional spacing between cars in order to absorb variations in speed due to traffic.