buttoned-up 1 of 2

adjective

ˈbə-tᵊnd-ˈəp How to pronounce buttoned-up (audio)
Definition of buttoned-upnext
as in detached
having or showing a lack of friendliness or interest in others a buttoned-up colleague who had no interest in talking about anything but work, even at parties

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

buttoned (up)

2 of 2

verb

past tense of button (up)
as in zipped (up)

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of buttoned-up
Adjective
Raquel Welch brought her signature va-va-voom and fashion-forward style to the Oscars, with low necklines, high slits, and daring silhouettes, during a time when the ceremony dress code was much more (literally) buttoned-up. — Kevin Huynh, InStyle, 15 Mar. 2026 The new offering, however, seems more buttoned-up. — Leo Schwartz, Fortune, 9 Mar. 2026 Amazon has plenty of excellent work dresses that feel buttoned-up without being boring—and that are suitable for a range of office environments. — Malia Griggs, Glamour, 20 Jan. 2026 The fun retro glasses seemed to rebel against gear that was getting as buttoned-up as the world, which has felt a bit heavier and more serious in the last five to ten years. — Lily Ritter, Outside, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for buttoned-up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for buttoned-up
  1. detached
  2. distant
  3. cold
  4. cool
  5. reserved
Adjective
  • The former Feyenoord boss stood accused of being too detached from the local fanbase.
    — James Pearce, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026
  • Supervisors also supported language that would allow detached guest houses to be used as vacation rentals.
    — Haley Parsley August 20, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of detached
Adjective
  • Its real-time viewing feature can show the home environment and help distant family members feel more connected.
    — Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
  • After some major modifications, it's set to begin its five-year mission peering at new supernovas, distant galaxies and planets orbiting stars outside our solar system.
    — Berly McCoy, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of distant
Adjective
  • Loco is known for its casual and rustic atmosphere, barbecue comfort food and cold drinks.
    — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Summer is typically the most expensive time to pick up a lease, with asking prices falling in colder months, according to historical Apartment List data.
    — Mark Dee August 26, Idaho Statesman, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of cold
Adjective
  • Crews may benefit from slightly cooler temperatures in the days ahead, Gass said, and wind conditions are expected to remain fairly calm in both areas.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
  • But this is largely a myth, concocted by critics and cool kids to explain away and undercut the popularity of their music.
    — Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of cool
Adjective
  • Guzman Soto was quiet, reserved and religious and regularly attended local church groups and Bible studies, a 32-year-old neighbor who declined to give his name said.
    — Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Feliciano sounded the same theme, if in a more reserved tone.
    — Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of reserved

Browse Nearby Words

buttoned
buttoned-up
buttoned (up)
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Cite this Entry

“Buttoned-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/buttoned-up. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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