button

word

/ˈbətən/
BUH-tuhn
/bˈʌtən/
BUH-tuhn

Definition

A button is a small object you press to make a machine or device do something, or a small fastener used to close clothes.

Usage & Nuances

Very common for devices: 'press a button', 'hit the button', 'push the wrong button'. For clothes, we usually say 'do up/button up your shirt'. In informal English, 'push someone’s buttons' means to annoy them deliberately.

Example Sentences

Press the red button to start the machine.

basic

Just hit the button and the coffee maker will do the rest.

natural

I lost a button from my coat.

basic

This button opens the door.

basic

Can you button your jacket? It’s cold outside.

natural

He knows exactly how to push my buttons when we argue.

natural