butterfly: Meaning and Definition of

but•ter•fly

1. any of numerous diurnal insects of the order Lepidoptera, characterized by clubbed antennae, a slender body, and large, broad, often conspicuously marked wings.
2. a person who flits aimlessly from one interest or group to another: a social butterfly.
3. a queasy feeling, as from nervousness, excitement, etc.
4. a racing breaststroke, using a dolphin kick, in which the swimmer brings both arms out of the water in forward, circular motions.
5. See
6. an-shaped support attached to an armature.
7. one of the swinging brackets of a butterfly table.
8. a screen of scrim, gauze, or similar material, for diffusing light.

1. to slit open and spread apart to resemble the spread wings of a butterfly.