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Boutonniere Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒน
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boutonniere

[buหtษ™หˆnษชr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

floral arrangement

A boutonniere is a small floral decoration worn by men, typically pinned to the lapel of a suit or tuxedo. It is commonly used during formal events such as weddings, proms, and other celebrations.

Synonyms

flower pin, lapel flower.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a white rose boutonniere for the wedding.
  • The groom's boutonniere matched the bride's bouquet.
  • Each guest received a boutonniere upon entering the gala.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, wearing a boutonniere is a sign of formal attire, commonly seen at weddings, proms, and other significant events.
  • Boutonnieres are often made from flowers that have symbolic meanings, such as roses for love or lilies for purity.

Fashion

  • Boutonnieres add a touch of sophistication to a man's formal wardrobe, complementing other accessories like ties and cufflinks.
  • Modern fashion has seen creative takes on boutonnieres, using materials ranging from fabric to wood, making them unique.

Ceremonial Use

  • Traditionally, grooms and groomsmen wear beautiful boutonnieres, making them stand out during wedding ceremonies.
  • At military events, a boutonniere can signify rank and honor, often using specific flowers associated with the regiment.

Botanical Variety

  • Common choices for boutonnieres include carnations, orchids, and small roses, each offering various color options and scents.
  • Seasonal flowers can bring personal meaning to a boutonniere, allowing wearers to express their taste and heritage.

Origin of 'boutonniere'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the French word 'boutonniรจre', meaning 'buttonhole', as the flowers are worn in a hole on a jacket.
  • The practice of wearing a flower on clothing dates back to the 17th century, indicating style and elegance.

The word boutonniere comes from the French term 'boutonniรจre,' which translates to 'buttonhole' in English. This reflects the original purpose of such floral decorations, which were designed to be placed in the buttonhole of a man's jacket. The tradition of wearing a boutonniere dates back to medieval times when knights would wear flowers as a symbol of love or to honor a lady. Over the centuries, the boutonniere has evolved to become a common accessory for formal and ceremonial occasions, often chosen to match the attire or the theme of the event. Today, it symbolizes elegance and is a staple of Western formal wear.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,928, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.