butterfly
butterfly Lexical Profile
butterfly Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A nectar-feeding insect of the order Lepidoptera, characterized by a slender body, clubbed antennae, and four large, typically brightly colored wings.
"We sat in the garden and watched a monarch butterfly land delicately on the milkweed."
A person who moves frequently and restlessly from one social event, group, or interest to another.
"Ever the social butterfly, he spent the evening mingling with guests at every table."
A swimming stroke performed on the breast, in which both arms are brought forward simultaneously over the water while executing a dolphin kick.
"She won the gold medal after swimming the 100-meter butterfly in record time."
• verb
To split a piece of meat, fish, or poultry almost entirely in half and spread it flat like wings before cooking.
"The chef decided to butterfly the chicken breast so it would cook more quickly and evenly on the grill."
To move, flutter, or flit about lightly and rapidly.
"The children butterflied around the playground, never staying at one game for long."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'buterfleoge', combining 'butere' (butter) and 'fleoge' (fly). The name may stem from the pale yellow color of many species, or from medieval folklore suggesting the insects stole butter and milk.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.