Definition of 'butch'

Word Frequency

butch

(bʊtʃ )

1. adjective

If you describe a woman as butch, you mean that she behaves or dresses in a masculine way. This use could cause offence.

[informal]

2. adjective

If you describe a man as butch, you mean that he behaves in an extremely masculine way.

[informal]

More Synonyms of butch

Word Frequency

butch in British

(bʊtʃ ) slang

adjective

(of a woman or man) markedly or aggressively masculine

noun

a lesbian who is regarded as having traditionally masculine traits

a strong rugged man

Word origin of 'butch'

C18: back formation from butcher

Word Frequency

butch in American

(bʊtʃ ; booch)

adjective

1. US, Slang

masculine in appearance, manner, etc.

sometimes used specif. of a lesbian

noun

2. US, Slang

a tough or rugged man or boy

used chiefly in direct address

3. Informal

buzz cut

Word origin of 'butch'

prob. after Butch, nickname for a boy, contr. < ? butcher

Example sentences containing 'butch'

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I tried to look butch, but it just ended up camp. The Sun (2011)So there we were, with these quite butch ladies asking 'Are you one of those punk rockers? Times, Sunday Times (2007)If you thought he looked butch with his shirt off in Brokeback Mountain brace yourself for a beefy surprise. Times, Sunday Times (2006)Not looking really butch now, am I? The Sun (2010)