Meaning & Definition of word "Butterfly"
to
Butterfly
/ˈbʌtərˌflaɪ/
noun:
- 1. A butterfly is an insect with two pairs of large, typically brightly colored wings that are covered in tiny scales.
- Example: The garden was filled with colorful butterflies flitting from flower to flower.
- 2. A butterfly can also refer to a person or figure that is perceived as light-hearted or carefree.
- Example: She danced around the room like a butterfly, carefree and joyful.
- 3. In a more specific context, 'butterfly' can describe a type of aquatic or aerial creature, related but different from the common butterfly.
- Example: The butterfly fish gracefully moved through the coral reef.
verb:
- 1. To butterfly means to spread the wings of a butterfly as it takes flight.
- Example: As the sun rose, butterflies began to butterfly in the warm morning air.
Etymology
The word 'butterfly' is thought to derive from the Old English 'butterfloege', possibly referring to the yellow color of some species resembling butter.
Common Phrases and Expressions
butterfly effect:
The concept that small causes can have large effects, often used in chaos theory.
social butterfly:
A person who is sociable and enjoys spending time with others.
butterfly in your stomach:
A feeling of nervousness or excitement.
Related Words
caterpillar:
The larval stage of a butterfly, often a long, worm-like creature.
larva:
The juvenile form of an insect that undergoes metamorphosis, including the caterpillar stage.
metamorphosis:
The process of transformation from an immature form to an adult form in two or more distinct stages.
Slang Meanings of butterfly
Meaning: To flirt or socialize with many people.
Example Sentence: She's such a butterfly, always moving around the party and chatting with everyone.
Meaning: To change one's loyalties or opinions frequently.
Example Sentence: He's a bit of a butterfly; you never know which side he's on.