Butte: meaning, definitions and examples
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butte
[ byo͞ot ]
geography
A butte is an isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small flat top. Buttes are formed by erosion and are common in arid regions.
Synonyms
mesa, mound, prominence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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butte |
Typically used to describe an isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top. This term is common in the western United States.
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mesa |
Used to describe a flat-topped mountain or hill with steep sides, commonly found in arid regions. Larger than a butte.
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mound |
A small, rounded hill or a heap of earth or stones. This word can also refer to artificial structures, often used in archaeology.
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prominence |
Usually indicates a notable elevation or projection, especially when referring to a peak or outcrop that stands out from its surroundings. It can also refer to a distinguished feature or position in various contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The butte in the distance stood out against the desert landscape.
- We hiked to the top of the butte to enjoy the panoramic view.
informal
In informal usage, a butte can refer to a person's buttocks or rear end.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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butte |
A 'butte' is a term used in geography to describe a small, isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top. It is often found in arid regions.
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buttocks |
'Buttocks' is a more formal or medical term referring to the two fleshy parts of the human body that form the bottom region. It is often used in medical, anatomical, or polite conversation.
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behind |
'Behind' is used to indicate the position of something or someone at the back of another object or person. It can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative.
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rear |
'Rear' is a term used to refer to the back part of something. It can describe the back of a vehicle, building, or even the body (like the buttocks) in a more polite manner.
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Examples of usage
- He slipped on the wet floor and landed right on his butte.
- She worked hard to tone her butte for the summer.
Translations
Translations of the word "butte" in other languages:
🇵🇹 colina isolada
🇮🇳 पहाड़ी
🇩🇪 Hügel
🇮🇩 bukit
🇺🇦 самітня гора
🇵🇱 wzgórze
🇯🇵 孤立丘
🇫🇷 butte
🇪🇸 colina
🇹🇷 tepe
🇰🇷 고립된 언덕
🇸🇦 تل
🇨🇿 vrch
🇸🇰 kopček
🇨🇳 孤立山丘
🇸🇮 osamela vzpetina
🇮🇸 stakkt hóll
🇰🇿 жалғыз төбе
🇬🇪 მთაწმინდა
🇦🇿 tək təpə
🇲🇽 cerro
Etymology
The word 'butte' comes from the French word meaning 'small hill' or 'knoll'. Buttes are geological formations that have been shaped by erosion over time, resulting in their distinctive steep sides and flat tops. They are commonly found in the western United States, particularly in states like Utah and Arizona.