unbutton

verb

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

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.
The sophisticated style has a relaxed fit and can be worn either buttoned or unbuttoned over a tank top. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026 The former trainee alleges Miller unbuttoned his pants and then put his hand directly on his genitals. — Emma Hurt, AJC.com, 25 June 2026 The oversized button-down can be worn unbuttoned over a white tank or even over a bathing suit during the warmer months, and the shorts have a high-rise fit complete with a stretchy, adjustable waistband. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 21 Apr. 2026 To add to the breezy summer feel of her look, Cyrus wore her loose denim top unbuttoned right to her sternum, forgoing any necklaces in favor or bold aviator sunglasses. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 14 May 2026 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

Rhymes for unbutton

See All Rhymes for unbutton

Browse Nearby Words

unbuttered
unbutton
unbuttoned
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unbutton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unbutton. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for unbutton

Nglish: Translation of unbutton for Spanish Speakers

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