Buttering: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when applying butter, usually to bread or toast, in a gentle manner to make it more palatable.

• He was buttering his toast while reading the morning newspaper

Commonly used when applying oil or grease, often to machinery or cooking utensils, to reduce friction.

• He was greasing the hinges so the door would stop squeaking

Used when spreading something, often a soft or sticky substance, in a haphazard or messy manner. This word often has a negative connotation.

• The child was smearing peanut butter all over the table

Generally refers to applying something, such as butter, jam, or cream cheese, evenly across a surface like bread.

• She was spreading jam on her toast

Typically used in informal contexts and often implies insincere praise to gain favor or advantage from someone. Often considered slightly negative.

• She kept buttering up the boss to get a promotion.
• He was buttering me up all day just to borrow my car.

Implying insincere or exaggerated praise, often with the intent of gaining favor or influencing someone. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• Your flattery will get you nowhere with me.
• She was cynical about all the flattery she received.

Refers to exaggerated flattery or praise to someone in authority, usually for personal gain. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used in formal contexts.

• His sycophancy was obvious to everyone in the office.
• The sycophancy of the courtiers disgusted the queen.

Indicates intense admiration or praise, often to an excessive degree and usually in formal or literary contexts. It can carry a negative nuance of exaggeration.

• The actor enjoyed the adulation of fans everywhere he went.
• Politicians sometimes thrive on public adulation.