boutonniere: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal; Specialized
Quick answer
What does “boutonniere” mean?
A flower or small bouquet worn in a buttonhole, especially on the lapel of a jacket.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A flower or small bouquet worn in a buttonhole, especially on the lapel of a jacket.
Any small floral decoration worn on clothing, traditionally associated with formal events like weddings and proms. By extension, can refer to a small, discrete floral arrangement.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: UK English often uses the original French spelling 'boutonnière' with the accent, while US English typically drops it as 'boutonniere'. Pronunciation is essentially the same.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word carries connotations of tradition, formality, and elegance. Its use is largely confined to the same specific social contexts.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, used primarily in contexts discussing formalwear or event planning.
Grammar
How to Use “boutonniere” in a Sentence
[Subject] wore/pinned a [Adjective] boutonniere.The [Noun]'s boutonniere was made of [Noun].He had a boutonniere in his [Noun].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “boutonniere” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The groomsmen will be *boutonniered* with sprigs of lavender.
- He was meticulously *boutonniered* for the state banquet.
American English
- The stylist *boutonniered* all the male guests with red carnations.
- He had himself *boutonniered* before the ceremony.
adverb
British English
- This term is rarely, if ever, used adverbially.
American English
- This term is rarely, if ever, used adverbially.
adjective
British English
- The *boutonniere* rose was a deep crimson.
- He selected a *boutonniere* orchid for its durability.
American English
- She offered a *boutonniere* pin to secure the flower.
- The *boutonniere* style was simple and classic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare; might appear in historical or cultural studies of fashion.
Everyday
Used only when discussing specific formal events (weddings, galas, proms).
Technical
Used in floristry and formalwear/tailoring contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “boutonniere”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “boutonniere”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “boutonniere”
- Misspelling: 'boutonnier', 'boutonierre'. Mispronunciation: /baʊˈtɒn.i.ər/. Confusing with 'corsage' (worn by women).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A boutonniere is typically a single flower or small spray worn by men on the lapel. A corsage is a small bouquet worn by women, usually on the wrist, dress strap, or pinned to the waist.
It is traditionally worn on the left lapel, over the heart.
No, it is a low-frequency word used almost exclusively in the context of formal events like weddings, proms, and galas.
Roses, carnations, lilies of the valley, and stephanotis are popular choices due to their sturdiness and symbolic meanings.
A flower or small bouquet worn in a buttonhole, especially on the lapel of a jacket.
Boutonniere is usually formal; specialized in register.
Boutonniere: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbuː.tɒnˈjeə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbuː.tənˈjɛr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated. Conceptually linked to 'dressed to the nines'.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BOUTON' (French for button) + 'NIERE' (sounds like 'near') → a flower worn near the button (in the buttonhole).
Conceptual Metaphor
FORMALITY IS ADORNMENT; CEREMONY IS BLOOM.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'boutonniere' most specifically?