button

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. a small part of a machine or device that you press to make it do something.

n. a physical switch or interface element that, when depressed, completes an electrical circuit or activates a mechanical process.

日本語:ボタン※

“Press the red button to start the coffee machine.”

“The emergency stop button is positioned within easy reach of the operator to ensure the assembly line can be halted instantly.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Computing

n. a small area on a computer screen or phone that you click or touch to perform an action.

n. a graphical user interface element designed to mimic a physical button, used to trigger a specific software function.

日本語:ボタン※

“Click the 'Submit' button at the bottom of the form to send your application.”

“The developer moved the 'Delete' button to a separate menu to prevent users from accidentally erasing their data.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun American English

n. a small round piece of metal or plastic with a picture or message that you pin to your clothes.

n. a circular badge or pin-back fastener worn on clothing, typically displaying a political message, logo, or decorative design.

“He wore a campaign button on his jacket to show which candidate he supported.”

“The protesters distributed bright yellow buttons featuring the movement's slogan to everyone entering the square.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal

n. the power to start a nuclear war or a very large disaster.

n. a metaphorical reference to the authority or mechanism required to initiate a nuclear strike or cataclysmic event.

“People worry about which world leaders have their finger on the button.”

“Diplomatic efforts were intensified to ensure that no single impulsive leader would have unilateral control over the button.”

A2 · Elementary

v. to close a piece of clothing using buttons.

v. to secure a garment or opening by passing buttons through their corresponding holes.

“Button your coat before you go outside; it is very cold today.”

“He carefully buttoned his waistcoat, checking his reflection in the mirror to ensure every fastener was aligned correctly.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Informal

v. to stop talking or keep a secret.

v. to cease speaking or maintain silence, often used as an imperative in the phrase 'button it'.

“If you can't say anything nice, you should just button it.”

“The witness was warned to button it regarding the details of the investigation until the trial officially commenced.”