Button

Definition

Button is used as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a small, usually round object attached to clothing for fastening or decoration, or to a control mechanism that activates a device when pressed. As a verb, it means to fasten something with buttons or to press a button on a device.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʌtən/
• Respelling: BUT-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʌtən/
• Respelling: BUT-uhn

Etymology

The word "button" comes from Old French "boton," meaning "knob" or "bud," derived from the Latin "botonem," meaning "to push" or "to thrust." Initially used in English in the 13th century to describe fasteners, it later extended to mechanical push-buttons.

Derivatives

• Buttonhole (noun)
• Buttoning (verb)
• Push-button (noun)
• Unbutton (verb)
• Buttoned-up (adjective)

Synonyms

• Fastener
• Switch
• Knob

Antonyms

• Unfasten
• Detach
• Release

Usage

The term "button" is used to describe both a fastening mechanism on clothing and a control mechanism on devices. For example, "He pressed the power button on the remote," or "She sewed a new button onto her coat."

Related Terms

• Switch: A control for turning a device on or off.
• Latch: A mechanism for fastening or securing.
• Toggle: A type of switch that allows alternating between two states.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small disk used to fasten clothing: A circular object sewn onto garments for closure or decoration.
  • Example: "The coat has a missing button."
• A control mechanism on a device: A small part of a device that activates a function when pressed.
  • Example: "Press the volume button to adjust sound."

Verb

• To fasten with buttons: The act of securing clothing by engaging buttons through buttonholes.
  • Example: "She buttoned up her jacket before going outside."
• To press a button on a device: Refers to activating a function by pressing a button.
  • Example: "He buttoned the power switch to turn on the device."