1. "To waste time": This is the most common meaning. It means to delay something, often by doing something unnecessary, or doing nothing at all.
* Example: "I'm buffering before I have to deal with that presentation."
2. "To protect oneself": This meaning relates to the original meaning of "buffer" as a material that absorbs impact. In slang, it refers to someone using a person or thing as a shield against something negative.
* Example: "I'm using my friends as a buffer against my boss's anger."
3. "To wait": This meaning is related to the internet term "buffering," which refers to the process of downloading data before it can be played. In slang, it can mean to simply wait for something.
* Example: "I'm just buffering until the party starts."
It's important to pay attention to the context to understand the meaning of "buffer" in slang.