button
button
(bŭtʹn) noun
1.
a. A generally disk-shaped fastener used to join two parts of a garment by fitting through a buttonhole or loop. b. Such an object used for decoration.
2. Any of various objects resembling a button, especially: a. A push-button switch. b. The blunt tip of a fencing foil. c. A fused metal or glass globule.
3. Any of various knoblike structures of a plant or animal, especially: a. An immature, unexpanded mushroom. b. The tip of a rattlesnake's rattle.
4. A usually round flat badge that bears a design or printed information and is typically pinned to a garment: a campaign button.
5. Informal. The end of the chin, regarded as the point of impact for a punch.
verb
buttoned
, buttoning, buttons
verb
, transitive
1.
To fasten with buttons: buttoned his shirt; buttoned up her raincoat.
2.
To decorate or furnish with buttons.
3.
Informal. To close (the lips or mouth): Button your lip.
verb
, intransitive
To be or be capable of being fastened with buttons: The blouse buttons up the back.
idiom.
on the button
Exactly; precisely.
[Middle English, from Old French bouton, from bouter, to thrust, of Germanic origin.]
but
ʹtoner noun
but
ʹtony adjective