Butte: meaning, definitions and examples
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butte
[byo͞ot ]
Definitions
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 |
|---|---|
| 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.
|
| mound |
A small, rounded hill or a heap of earth or stones. This word can also refer to artificial structures, often used in archaeology.
|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| 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.
|
| 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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'butte' comes from the French word for 'small hill,' which relates to its size compared to larger mountains.
- In American English, 'butte' is used particularly in the western United States where many of these landforms exist.
Geography
- Buttes are often formed through erosion, a process where wind and water wear away softer rock, leaving harder rock behind.
- They can be found in various regions, but are most commonly associated with the arid landscapes of the American Southwest.
- Prominent examples include the iconic flat-topped formations like those seen in Monument Valley.
Cultural Significance
- Buttes have significant historical and cultural importance to many Indigenous peoples of North America, who often view them as sacred places.
- In art, buttes frequently appear in paintings of the western landscape, symbolizing the vastness and beauty of nature.
Science
- Buttes provide important geological records, offering insights into the Earth’s history through the layers of rock exposed on their sides.
- Studying buttes helps scientists understand erosion and sedimentation processes in environmental science.
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