Buoy"an*cy (&?;), n.; pl.
Buoyancies (&?;). 1. The property of
floating on the surface of a liquid, or in a fluid, as in the atmosphere;
specific lightness, which is inversely as the weight compared with that of
an equal volume of water.
2. (Physics) The upward pressure exerted
upon a floating body by a fluid, which is equal to the weight of the body;
hence, also, the weight of a floating body, as measured by the volume of
fluid displaced.
Such are buoyancies or displacements of the different
classes of her majesty's ships.
Eng. Cyc.
3. Cheerfulness; vivacity; liveliness;
sprightliness; -- the opposite of heaviness; as, buoyancy of
spirits.