Guest

button up JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/ˈbʌt.ən ʌp/ · but.ən.up
verb
  1. To remain silent, especially in order to keep a secret or to avoid saying something inappropriate. She had to button up when her friend told her a confidential story.
  2. To fasten with a button or buttons. Button up your shirt cuff. It has come undone.
  3. To fasten all the buttons on a coat, or similar item of clothing, to keep warm. Button up well. It's freezing outside today.
  4. To conclude; to finalize; to put the finishing touches (on). It's time to button up the meeting and send out the minutes.
Did you know? The phrase 'button up' is often used in the context of business meetings, where it means to conclude the discussion and finalize the decisions made.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 16, 2026