How Do You Spell BUTTONING UP?
Pronunciation: [bˈʌtənɪŋ ˈʌp] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [bˈʌtənɪŋ ˈʌp] (IPA)
Buttoning up refers to the act of fastening buttons or securing something with buttons, typically in the context of clothing or objects with button closures. When an individual button up a garment, they close or fasten it by aligning the buttons with the corresponding buttonholes and pushing them through to affix the fabric together. Buttoning up can also involve the opposite action, unbuttoning, which is the act of releasing the buttons and opening the closure.
The term "buttoning up" can also extend beyond clothing and apply to other objects or situations. In a more general sense, buttoning up can refer to securing or closing something firmly or tightly. For example, one might button up a suitcase by closing the latches or button up a bag by tightening the drawstring. This can also be applied metaphorically to non-physical scenarios, such as buttoning up a project or task by completing all the necessary details and ensuring everything is in order.
Additionally, "buttoning up" can have figurative meanings relating to the act of closing or putting an end to something. It can refer to finalizing or concluding a matter or arrangement, symbolizing a completed or finished state. This can be seen in phrases like "buttoning up loose ends," meaning to resolve or tie up any outstanding issues or loose threads in a project, plan, or relationship.
Overall, buttoning up primarily describes the act of fastening buttons on clothing or objects, but can also encompass securing, closing, completing, or finalizing various physical and metaphorical elements.
The phrase "buttoning up" has its roots in the word "button", which originated from the Old French word "bouton". "Bouton" referred to a bud or a shoot, which later evolved to mean a small knob or disc used for fastening. The verb "to button" came into existence around the late 14th century, meaning to fasten or close with buttons.
The expression "buttoning up" figuratively refers to the act of closing or fastening something, similar to how buttons close or fasten garments. It can be used to describe the action of securing or closing a shirt, coat, or any other clothing item with buttons. Additionally, the phrase is often metaphorically extended to describe the act of closing or securing anything in general, such as finishing a task or organizing something thoroughly.
