# butch

/ˈbʊtʃ/ (US) · /bˈʊtʃ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/butch
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. masculine in appearance

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

having a look or attitude that is traditionally masculine.

For teachers: exhibiting a masculine appearance, manner, or style; often used to describe women or gay men.

- She preferred wearing butch clothes like heavy boots and leather jackets.
- The aesthetic was decidedly butch, characterized by short-cropped hair and utilitarian workwear that challenged traditional gender norms.

### 2. a masculine person

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

a person, usually a lesbian, who has a masculine appearance or style.

For teachers: a person, typically a lesbian, who adopts a masculine identity or aesthetic.

- In the film, the main character is a butch who works as a mechanic.
- The documentary explores the social history of butches and femmes in mid-century urban communities.

Teaching tip: While often used as a term of pride within the LGBTQ+ community, it can be offensive if used by outsiders as a stereotype.

## Examples

- He is a big, butch guy who works in construction.
- The new manager has a butch demeanor that intimidates the younger staff members.
- His butch exterior, marked by a deep voice and broad shoulders, concealed a surprising sensitivity to classical music.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.