Main Entry:

¹but·ter

Pronunciation:

\ˈbə-tər\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English butere, from Latin butyrum, from Greek boutyron, from bous cow + tyros cheese; akin to Avestan tūiri- curds — more at cow

Date:

before 12th century

1: a solid emulsion of fat globules, air, and water made by churning milk or cream and used as food2: a buttery substance: as a: any of various fatty oils remaining nearly solid at ordinary temperatures b: a creamy food spread ; especially : one made of ground roasted nuts <peanut butter> 3: flattery

— but·ter·less \-ləs\ adjective