Button: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

• She buttoned her coat before stepping outside.
• Press the power button to turn on the TV.

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.

• Make sure all the fasteners are secure before the flight takes off.
• They used specialized fasteners to assemble the furniture.

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.

• She fastened the pearl necklace with its delicate clasp.
• The clasp on her handbag was broken.

Used to describe a curved or bent device used for catching, holding, or pulling something, often found on coats, bags, and fishing gear.

• He hung his coat on the hook by the door.
• The fisherman attached the bait to the hook.

Refers to a small device you press to operate electronic equipment or machinery.

• Press the button to start the machine.
• She hit the red button to stop the alarm.

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.

• Flip the switch to turn on the light.
• There was a sudden switch in his attitude.

Often used when discussing computer keyboards or instruments with keys, like pianos. Also used metaphorically to indicate an important part.

• Press the F1 key for help.
• He lost the key to his success.

Used when referring to a mechanism or system that manages the functioning of a machine or device. Often used in a more general sense.

• The remote control is not working.
• This machine has several control settings.

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.

• He took a moment to button his jacket before leaving the house.
• Please button up your shirt, it's cold outside.