Butt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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butt

[bʌt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

body part

The buttocks, two rounded portions of the human anatomy located on the posterior of the pelvic region. The term 'butt' is colloquially used to refer to this body part.

Synonyms

backside, buttocks, derriere.

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Word Description / Examples
butt

This word is informal and can sometimes be seen as slightly vulgar or inappropriate in polite company. Often used in casual conversations or among friends.

  • He fell and landed right on his butt.
  • Get off your butt and do something!
buttocks

This is a technical and more anatomical term. It is appropriate in medical, fitness, and formal contexts.

  • The doctor asked him to lie down to examine his buttocks.
  • One of the exercises targets the muscles in the buttocks.
backside

This is a more neutral term and can be used in both casual and semi-formal settings. It is less likely to offend.

  • He slipped on the ice and hurt his backside.
  • She turned to show her backside to the camera.
derriere

This is a French word often used in English to sound fancy or humorous. It has a playful and slightly sophisticated connotation.

  • She has a well-toned derriere.
  • He made a joke about his derriere.

Examples of usage

  • He fell on his butt.
  • She sat on the cold butt of the statue.
  • I need to do some squats to tone my butt muscles.
  • The baby has a cute little butt.
  • He clenched his butt cheeks tightly.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A slang term for a cigarette. It is commonly used in American English.

Synonyms

cigarette.

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Word Description / Examples
butt

Use 'butt' when referring to the end or remaining small part of a cigarette after it has been smoked. It can also mean the lower or back part of something, like in 'butt of a joke'.

  • He tossed the cigarette butt into the trash can.
  • The comedian made him the butt of the joke.
cigarette

Use 'cigarette' when talking about the whole product that people smoke. It is a small roll of finely cut tobacco wrapped in a thin paper.

  • She stepped outside to smoke a cigarette.
  • The smoker pulled a cigarette from the pack.

Examples of usage

  • He stepped outside for a quick butt break.
  • Do you have a spare butt I can borrow?
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To hit or push against something with the head or horns. It is often used in the context of animals like goats or sheep.

Synonyms

bump, push, ram.

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Word Description / Examples
butt

Often used to describe a playful or accidental collision, usually where someone lightly taps or bumps into someone else with their head or body.

  • During the game, he accidentally butted his friend in the side.
  • The goat butted its head against the fence playfully.
ram

Implies a forceful, deliberate impact or collision, usually with considerable power and often with the intent to cause damage. This term has a more aggressive connotation.

  • The car rammed into the wall.
  • The ship tried to ram the other vessel.
  • He tried to ram the locked door open with his shoulder.
bump

Used to describe a minor, usually accidental, collision or impact, often resulting in a slight jolt or shake. It can also refer to minor physical injuries or slight increases in something.

  • She bumped into the table and spilled her drink.
  • I bumped my head on the shelf.
  • There was a small bump in the road.
push

This word describes applying force to move someone or something away. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as physically moving objects or urging someone to take action. Can have a negative connotation when used to describe forceful behavior.

  • She had to push the door to open it.
  • He pushed the chair across the room.
  • She pushed her friend to pursue their dreams.

Examples of usage

  • The goat butted the door with its horns.
  • He butted his head against the wall in frustration.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • The term is often used in jokes and playful teasing, reflecting its humorous position in casual language.
  • In some cultures, emphasizing the size or shape of this body part is a form of art or beauty, like in dance and fashion.

Science

  • This body part is comprised of muscles and fat, primarily the gluteus maximus, which is crucial for movement and balance.
  • Sitting too long can lead to health issues like poor posture and back pain, highlighting the importance of keeping active.

Psychology

  • Laughing at words like 'butt' can relieve stress and create a light-hearted atmosphere among friends.
  • The childish giggle often associated with the word shows how humor can enhance social bonding.

Media

  • 'Butt' is frequently referenced in comedy films and shows, often used for its shock value and absurd humor.
  • Popular music often employs playful language and metaphors, with this term appearing in lyrics to create catchy hooks.

Origin of 'butt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'butt' comes from the Old French word 'bouter,' meaning to push or strike.
  • In Middle English, it referred to the rounded end of something, which eventually became associated with the human body.

The word 'butt' has a long history, dating back to Old English 'buttuc', which originally meant 'end, short piece'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to the posterior of the human body. The slang usage of 'butt' to mean cigarette likely originated in the early 20th century. The verb form of 'butt' meaning to hit or push likely comes from the notion of striking with the head or horns, similar to how animals like goats or sheep might behave.


See also: but, button, rebut.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,359 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.