butler

[ˈbʌtlər]

butler Definition

the main male servant in a large house, usually responsible for organizing the other servants and for serving meals.

Using butler: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "butler" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The butler served dinner promptly at 7 pm.

  • Example

    The butler was responsible for managing the household staff.

  • Example

    The butler answered the door and greeted the guests.

butler Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for butler

Phrases with butler

  • butler's pantry

    a room between a kitchen and dining room, used to store serving dishes, silverware, and linens

    Example

    The butler's pantry was stocked with fine china and crystal glasses.

  • butler's tray

    a portable tray with raised edges, used for serving drinks or food

    Example

    The butler's tray was filled with champagne flutes and hors d'oeuvres.

  • gentleman's gentleman

    a humorous term for a butler, emphasizing the formality and respectability of the position

    Example

    Jeeves, the famous butler in P.G. Wodehouse's novels, is the quintessential gentleman's gentleman.

Origins of butler

from Old French 'bouteillier', meaning 'cup-bearer'

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Summary: butler in Brief

A 'butler' [ˈbʌtlər] is the head male servant in a large house, responsible for managing other household staff and serving meals. The role is often associated with formality and respectability, as seen in phrases like 'gentleman's gentleman.' Other related terms include 'butler's pantry,' a room for storing serving dishes, and 'butler's tray,' a portable tray for serving drinks or food.

How do native speakers use this expression?