Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbʌtəri/

Definitions

• Having the characteristics or texture of butter, especially in being smooth, rich, or creamy.
• Used to describe a food or texture that is rich, soft, and creamy, like butter.
• Figuratively, used to describe something that is smooth or easy, as in "buttery smooth."

Usage Examples

• The sauce had a buttery texture, making the dish incredibly rich.
• She applied a buttery layer of cream to her skin after the bath.
• His voice had a buttery quality that made it easy to listen to.

Etymology

The word "buttery" comes from the Middle English "butter" (from Old French "buter" or Latin "butyrum"), combined with the suffix "-y" to denote an adjective describing the characteristics of butter. The term originally referred to the creamy, smooth texture of butter itself, which was used as a metaphor for richness and smoothness in various contexts.

Synonyms

• Rich
• Creamy
• Silky
• Velvety
• Luxurious

Antonyms

• Coarse
• Rough
• Harsh
• Dry

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "buttery" is pronounced with a strong "r" sound, /ˈbʌtəri/.
• In British English, it is often pronounced with a more subtle "r" sound, sometimes approaching /ˈbʌtəɹi/.

Historical Usage

The term "buttery" has been used since the early 14th century, first appearing in literature to describe the smooth texture of butter. It originally referred to the characteristics of butter in food but gradually evolved to describe any soft, creamy, or smooth texture or feeling, extending its use to non-food items as well.

Cultural Nuances

Buttery is often associated with richness, indulgence, and comfort. In culinary traditions worldwide, the use of butter or butter-like textures is valued for the rich, smooth flavor it imparts to dishes. In cultural terms, something described as "buttery" often implies a luxurious or smooth experience, whether referring to food, music, or even a person's voice.

More Information

Buttery is primarily used to describe a food item or texture that is rich and smooth, but it has also become a metaphor for any smooth or soft sensation. In cooking, butter is used for its ability to add a creamy, smooth texture to various dishes, including sauces, pastries, and desserts. The phrase "buttery smooth" is commonly used to describe things like a person's skin or a soft, easy-to-listen-to voice. Buttery flavors are often linked to indulgence and comfort in food, making it a desirable texture in many cuisines.