NYT Dictionary

BUTTON

/ˈbʌʔən/
NounVerbBUT-tonbut-ton · 2 syllablesGrade 3

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026

Meaning

A knob or disc that is passed through a loop or (buttonhole), serving as a fastener.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

From Middle English boton, botoun, from Old French boton (Modern French bouton), from Old French bouter, boter (“to push; thrust”), ultimately from a Germanic language. Doublet of bouton, Biden, and beat. More at butt.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

endbuttonpart of a violin-family instrumentadjusterblowpushclitorisclitreleasearmoryarticulate

Antonyms

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 4 recorded puzzles:

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