unbutton

verb

un·​but·​ton ˌən-ˈbə-tᵊn How to pronounce unbutton (audio)
unbuttoned; unbuttoning; unbuttons

transitive verb

1
: to loose the buttons of
2
: to open by or as if by loosing buttons

intransitive verb

: to undo buttons

Examples of unbutton in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Robbie posed on the carpet opposite her costar Colin Farrell, who wore a slate gray double-breasted suit with a matching shirt, unbuttoned to reveal a small gold chain. Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2025 On Friday, Roberts offered the first glimpse of Vitale’s vision for the house in a navy blazer with a slightly oversized cut, layered over a striped button-down casually unbuttoned and pushed up at the sleeves. Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2025 The 21-year-old victim fell asleep in the backseat of Chami's car after a late night at a Galveston saloon and reportedly woke up in the front seat of his car parked near a school with her shorts unbuttoned. Alexandra Koch , Brooke Taylor, FOXNews.com, 15 Aug. 2025 It can be worn buttoned or unbuttoned with a tank top underneath and slacks at the office, unbuttoned over a maxi dress to cookouts, or as a swimsuit cover-up poolside. Clint Davis, People.com, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for unbutton

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unbutton was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unbutton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unbutton. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

unbutton

verb
un·​but·​ton ˌən-ˈbət-ᵊn How to pronounce unbutton (audio)
: to unfasten the buttons of (as a garment)

More from Merriam-Webster on unbutton

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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