buttonhole

[buht-n-hohl]

buttonhole Definition

• 1. a slit or loop through which a button is passed, used for fastening a garment
• 2. to detain (someone) in conversation against their will

Using buttonhole: Examples

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

• Example

  The buttonhole on my shirt is too small.

• Example

  She wore a flower in the buttonhole of her coat.

• Example

  I tried to leave, but he buttonholed me and wouldn't let me go.

• Example

  He was buttonholed by reporters as he left the courthouse.

buttonhole Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for buttonhole

• button loop
• button fastener
• button catch

Phrases with buttonhole

• make a buttonhole

  to create a slit or loop in fabric to attach a button

  Example

  I need to make a buttonhole on this shirt.

• buttonhole stitch

  a type of embroidery stitch used to reinforce and decorate the edges of a buttonhole

  Example

  She used a buttonhole stitch to finish the edges of the patch.

• buttonhole someone

  to stop someone and engage them in conversation, often against their will

  Example

  I was buttonholed by a salesman in the store.

Origins of buttonhole

from the late Middle English 'boutonniere', meaning 'buttonhole'

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Summary: buttonhole in Brief

A 'buttonhole' [buht-n-hohl] is a slit or loop in fabric used to attach a button. It can also refer to the act of detaining someone in conversation against their will. Examples include 'The buttonhole on my shirt is too small.' and 'I tried to leave, but he buttonholed me and wouldn't let me go.' Phrases include 'make a buttonhole,' 'buttonhole stitch,' and 'buttonhole someone.'