butt1
v.
- hit with the head or horns.
-
(butt in)
interrupt or intrude on a conversation or activity.
▸
(butt out)
N. Amer. informal stop interfering.
n.
a rough push with the head.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. boter, of Gmc origin.
butt2
n.
- an object of criticism or ridicule.
- an archery or shooting target or range.
▸a mound on or in front of which a target is set up for archery or shooting.
▸a grouse-shooter's stand.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. but, of unknown origin.
butt3
n.
-
(also butt end)
the thicker end of something, especially a tool or a weapon.
▸the square end of a plank or plate meeting the end or side of another.
-
(also butt end)
the stub of a cigar or a cigarette.
- N. Amer. informal a person's bottom.
- the trunk of a tree, especially the part just above the ground.
v.
meet end to end:
the shop butted up against the row of houses.
▸join (pieces of stone, timber, etc.) with the ends or sides flat against each other.
Phrase
- butt naked
informal completely naked.
Etymology
ME: the noun appar. rel. to Du. bot ‘stumpy’, also to buttock; the verb partly from butt2, reinforced by abut.
butt4
n.
- a cask used for wine, ale, or water.
- US a liquid measure equal to 126 US gallons (equivalent to 477.5 litres).
Etymology
ME: from OFr. bot, from late L. buttis.