Pronunciation

/bəˈtɪflaʊ/

Definitions

Noun

A butterfly is a insect from the order Lepidoptera, known for its colorful wings, often having a life cycle that includes a caterpillar, chrysalis, and adult stages. They are often associated with spring and beauty.

Verb

To butterfly (informal) means to move quickly or nervously from one thing to another, or to fidget. It can also refer to the technique in cooking where a piece of meat is flattened by pounding or pressing.

Adjective

“Butterfly-like” describes something with delicate, graceful, or colorful patterns, resembling those of a butterfly.

Adverb

“Butterfly-effect” refers to the idea that small changes in initial conditions can lead to large-scale effects, inspired by the notion that the flap of a butterfly’s wings in Brazil could cause a tornado in Texas.

Phrases

• “Fluttering like a butterfly” describes light, delicate movements.
• “Butterflies in your stomach” is a feeling of nervousness or anxiety.
• “Caught between two butterflies” means being indecisive or torn between two choices.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The garden was filled with vibrant butterflies during the summer months.”
• Verb: “He couldn’t concentrate on his work, his mind kept butterflying from one thought to another.”
• Adjective: “Her artwork featured intricate butterfly-like designs.”
• Adverb: “The scientist discussed the butterfly effect in climate change research.”

Synonyms

• Caterpillar -蛾
• Papillon
• Flutterby
• Moth
• Winged creature

Antonyms

• Slug
• Worm
• Insectivore (not a butterfly itself, but a term for animals that eat insects)
• Staid (unlike the fluttery, carefree nature of a butterfly)