buttonhole
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈbʌtənhoʊl/
KK: /ˈbʌtənhoʊl/
noun
Definition
A small opening in clothing or fabric where a button can be inserted to fasten it.
Example
He carefully threaded the button through the buttonhole of his shirt.
Conversation
I need to sew a new buttonhole on this shirt.
Oh, I can help you with that if you'd like!
Thanks! I just want to make sure it looks neat and holds the button well.
No problem, I’ll show you how to do it properly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
slit
loop
eyelet
Antonyms
closure
fastening
seal
transitive verb
Definition
To create a small opening in fabric for a button to pass through, often done by sewing.
Example
She decided to buttonhole the new dress to ensure the buttons fit perfectly.
Tense Forms
Past: buttonholed
Past Participle: buttonholed
Conversation
I think I need to buttonhole this shirt before I wear it out.
That sounds like a good idea! It will look much better.
Yeah, I should really learn how to buttonhole properly.
Root Explanation
Buttonhole → The word is formed from "button" (from Old French *bouton*, meaning a small knob or stud) and "hole" (from Old English *hol*, meaning an opening or hollow space). A buttonhole is an opening designed to hold a button.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'small knob' ('button') fitting into an 'opening' ('hole') — that's what a buttonhole is.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.