Butte: meaning, definitions and examples

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butte

 

[ byo͞ot ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.

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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.

  • The butte rose majestically from the desert floor.
  • We decided to hike up the butte to get a better view of the valley.
mesa

Used to describe a flat-topped mountain or hill with steep sides, commonly found in arid regions. Larger than a butte.

  • The mesa stood out against the clear blue sky.
  • Ancient civilizations often settled on mesas for their defensive advantages.
mound

A small, rounded hill or a heap of earth or stones. This word can also refer to artificial structures, often used in archaeology.

  • The children played on the grassy mound in the backyard.
  • Archaeologists discovered an ancient burial mound in the field.
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.

  • The castle was built on a rocky prominence overlooking the town.
  • His quick rise to prominence in the company was impressive.

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.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

In informal usage, a butte can refer to a person's buttocks or rear end.

Synonyms

behind, buttocks, rear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • The butte stood tall against the desert landscape.
  • Climbing the butte offered a spectacular view of the valley below.
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.

  • The doctor examined the patient's buttocks for any signs of injury.
  • The athlete felt a strain in his buttocks after the intense workout.
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.

  • She hid behind the tree to surprise her friend.
  • Always remember to check behind you before reversing your car.
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.

  • The rear of the car was badly damaged in the accident.
  • They planted the flowers in the rear garden of their house.

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.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,104 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.