Button

/ˈbʌtən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small disc or knob that is pushed to operate a device or fasten clothing.

She pressed the button to start the elevator.

A decorative piece sewn onto clothing, often used to fasten or adorn.

He sewed a bright red button onto his jacket.

A part of a device that can be clicked or pressed to trigger an action.

The remote control has a button for each channel.

verb

To fasten with buttons.

Please button your coat before going outside.

To press a button to operate a device.

She buttoned the camera to take a photograph.

Middle English 'botoun', from Old French 'bouton', diminutive of 'bote' meaning knob.

push the button

To take action or make a decision, often with a decisive consequence.

button up

To close up the clothing by fastening buttons.

buttoned down

To hold back or restrain someone or something.

snap

A fastener that consists of two pieces that fit together tightly.

toggle

A switch that can be moved between two positions.

clip

An object used to hold things together, often with a clasping mechanism.

To be in control or in charge.

He has the button on this project.

To end or close something decisively.

They buttoned it up before any leaks could happen.