Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
buttonhole
noun, verb
/ˈbʌtnhoʊl/
Definition
A buttonhole is a small opening or slit made in a piece of fabric to allow a button to pass through, securing clothing or accessories.
Examples
- She carefully stitched the buttonhole on her dress.
- He managed to buttonhole her at the party to discuss his project.
Meaning
In a broader context, to ‘buttonhole’ someone can also mean to detain them in conversation, particularly in a way that is somewhat intrusive or unexpected.
Synonyms
- button eye
- fastening
- detain
- converse
