butterflies
word · lemma: butterfly
/ˈbətɝˌfɫaɪz/
/bˈʌtəflˌaɪz/
Definition
Butterflies are colorful insects with large wings. The word can also describe a nervous, fluttery feeling in your stomach, especially before something important.
Usage & Nuances
'Butterflies' refers both to the insect (literal) and to the feeling of nervous excitement, especially before a big event ('get/have butterflies' or 'butterflies in your stomach'). The figurative use is common in spoken English. Don't confuse with 'moths', which are nocturnal relatives.
Spanish: mariposasPortuguese (BR): borboletasPortuguese (PT): borboletasChinese (Simplified): 蝴蝶Chinese (Traditional): 蝴蝶Hindi: तितलियाँArabic: فراشاتBengali: প্রজাপতিগুলিRussian: бабочкиJapanese: 蝶（ちょう）Vietnamese: bướmKorean: 나비Turkish: kelebeklerUrdu: تتلیاںIndonesian: kupu-kupu
Example Sentences
There are many butterflies in the garden.
basic
The butterflies have bright colors.
basic
My sister loves watching butterflies.
basic
I always get butterflies before a test.
natural
Her smile gave me butterflies.
natural
Tiny white butterflies danced above the flowers.
natural