Butte Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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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.
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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 |
|---|---|
| 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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'butte'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
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.