butler

noun

but·​ler ˈbət-lər 

1

: a manservant having charge of the wines and liquors

2

: the chief male servant of a household who has charge of other employees, receives guests, directs the serving of meals, and performs various personal services

Examples of butler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Rustic-chic one-bedroom mansions here span a shocking 5,000 square feet and come with a private spa and gym, a private butler, a private assistant, and a personal chef. — Katie Lockhart, Robb Report, 16 July 2026

Each is inspired by a reputable prior guest and comes with private airport transfers, butler service, and a Champagne welcome. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 July 2026

Keep in mind, there are also often guest service perks available; Ali shares that visitors appreciate Langham’s butler suite services, which include unpacking, ironing, and arranging wardrobes for guests. — Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 12 July 2026

Select villa experiences may also include personalized concierge support, daily housekeeping, breakfast prepared in the residence and butler-style services ranging from bartending and light meal preparation to packing and unpacking assistance. — Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English buteler, from Anglo-French butiller, from Old French botele bottle — more at bottle

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing butler

• butler's pantry
• silent butler

Rhymes for butler

• cutler
• sutler

Kids Definition

butler

noun

but·​ler ˈbət-lər 

: a chief male household servant

Etymology

Middle English buteler "household servant in charge of wines," from early French butiller (same meaning), from botele "bottle," derived from Latin buttis "cask"

Biographical Definition

Butler 1 of 5

biographical name (1)

But·​ler ˈbət-lər 

Benjamin Franklin 1818–1893 American general and politician

Butler

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biographical name (2)

Joseph 1692–1752 English theologian

Butler

3 of 5

biographical name (3)

Nicholas Murray 1862–1947 American educator; president Columbia University (1901–45)

Butler

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biographical name (4)

Samuel 1612–1680 English satirical poet

Butler

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biographical name (5)

Samuel 1835–1902 English novelist and satirist