Button Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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button
[ˈbʌtən ]
Definitions
on clothing
A small disc or knob sewn on a garment, either to fasten it by being pushed through a slit made for the purpose or for decoration.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| button |
Used primarily to refer to small, usually round objects sewn onto clothing to fasten it. It can also be used in a broader sense for switches on electronic devices.
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| fastener |
A general term that can refer to any device used to fasten, including buttons, zippers, snaps, and clasps. Often used in a technical or industrial context.
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| clasp |
Usually used for a fastening device that holds together two parts of a piece of jewelry or a handbag. It denotes something that snaps or locks shut.
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| hook |
Used to describe a curved or bent device used for catching, holding, or pulling something, often found on coats, bags, and fishing gear.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a black dress with silver buttons.
- He fumbled with the buttons on his shirt.
on electronic devices
A small device on a piece of electronic equipment that is pressed to operate it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| button |
Refers to a small device you press to operate electronic equipment or machinery.
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| switch |
Indicates a device for turning on or off an electrical current, often implying a larger, more noticeable mechanism than a button. Can also metaphorically mean a change in state.
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| key |
Often used when discussing computer keyboards or instruments with keys, like pianos. Also used metaphorically to indicate an important part.
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| control |
Used when referring to a mechanism or system that manages the functioning of a machine or device. Often used in a more general sense.
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Examples of usage
- Press the power button to turn on the computer.
- The remote control has various buttons for different functions.
to fasten with a button
To fasten (clothing) with buttons.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| button |
Use this term when referring to the action of fastening clothing that has buttons, like shirts or coats. It implies using buttons to close or fasten an item of clothing.
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Examples of usage
- She buttoned up her coat to stay warm.
- He buttoned his shirt before leaving the house.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, shiny buttons symbolize wealth and status, often seen in royal garments.
- In Japan, traditional garments called 'kimono' often feature intricate buttons as decorative elements.
- The act of sewing buttons onto clothing is a common practice in various cultures, signifying care and craftsmanship.
Technology
- In modern devices, buttons serve as interactive elements, allowing users to perform functions with a simple press.
- Touch buttons, developed for smartphones and tablets, have largely replaced physical buttons, showcasing technological advancement.
- Smart home devices often use buttons to control various features, turning them into central hubs for home automation.
Psychology
- The 'button' metaphor is often used in psychological contexts to describe triggering responses, such as 'pushing someone's buttons' to evoke emotions.
- Research shows that the ease of clicking a button on a screen can influence decision-making and user satisfaction.
- Buttons designed with appealing colors or shapes can affect user engagement positively, highlighting the impact of aesthetics on behavior.
Art and Design
- Many contemporary artists use buttons in their works to explore themes of identity and social fabric.
- In textile arts, buttons can serve as both functional and decorative elements, contributing to the artwork's overall aesthetic.
- Button mosaics and crafts highlight creativity, turning something ordinary into unique pieces of art.
Origin of 'button'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'bouton,' meaning 'a small knob or stud.'
- It has roots in the Latin 'buttio,' which relates to the idea of protruding or sticking out.
- This term evolved over centuries, linking to various forms of fastening in clothing.
The word 'button' originated from the Old French word 'bouton', which means a bud or knob. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to a small disc or knob used for fastening or decoration. Buttons have been an essential part of clothing for centuries, evolving in style and function. In the modern era, buttons are not only functional but also serve aesthetic purposes, with various designs and materials used.