Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbʌtər/

Definitions

• A pale yellow edible fatty substance made from cream or milk, used as a spread or in cooking.
• A similar substance made from non-dairy ingredients, used as a substitute for butter.
• In informal use, "butter" can refer to something smooth, rich, or easily spreadable in texture.

Usage Examples

• She spread butter on her toast before adding jam.
• He decided to use margarine instead of butter for the recipe.
• The butter on the bread melted instantly in the heat.

Etymology

The word "butter" comes from Old English "butter," which is derived from Latin "butyrum," from the Greek "βούτυρον" (boúturon). The word has been used for the substance since around the 9th century in Europe, with the practice of churning cream into butter going back much earlier in history.

Synonyms

• Spread
• Margarine (as a substitute)
• Ghee (in Indian cuisine)

Antonyms

• Dry
• Non-fat spread

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "butter" is often pronounced with a soft "t," sounding more like "budder."
• In British English, the "t" sound is more clearly pronounced, as in "but-ter."

Historical Usage

Butter has been used since ancient times, with evidence of butter production going back over 4,000 years in regions like Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. It was originally made by churning cream in simple containers, and its use spread through Europe and Asia. The method of butter production was refined in the Middle Ages, and by the 17th century, butter had become a staple in European kitchens. It gained popularity in colonial America and has since become a key ingredient in cuisines worldwide.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, butter is seen not only as a cooking ingredient but also as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. In Indian culture, ghee (clarified butter) holds religious significance and is used in rituals and offerings. In Western cuisine, butter is considered a classic ingredient in baking, particularly in French and American pastry traditions. In some regions, butter is also a symbol of hospitality, often served with bread during meals.

More Information

Butter is made by churning cream to separate the butterfat from the buttermilk. The fat content of butter typically ranges from 80% to 85%, with the remaining percentage made up of water and milk solids. Butter is used in a variety of ways in cooking and baking, from spreading on bread to being an essential ingredient in pastries, sauces, and sautés. It can also be made from various animal milks, such as cow, goat, and sheep, or plant-based alternatives such as coconut or almond butter. The texture, flavor, and color of butter can vary depending on the production process and the type of milk used.