Pronunciation: [mˈʌtənz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "muttons" is phonetically transcribed as /ˈmʌtnz/. This word is the plural form of "mutton," which refers to the flesh of mature sheep used for food. The spelling of "muttons" follows the basic English grammar rule of adding "-s" or "-es" to the end of singular nouns to indicate plurality. The pronunciation of the word includes a short "u" sound followed by a nasal "n" consonant and a silent "s" at the end.
Muttons, noun/plural: muttons
1. Referring to the meat derived from mature sheep, specifically those that are at least 12 to 24 months old. Muttons are generally esteemed for their strong and distinctive flavor, darker color, and firm texture compared to the meat obtained from younger sheep called lamb. Their flavor profile is often described as robust, earthy, and slightly gamey. Muttons are commonly consumed in various cuisines worldwide, including Indian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and British.
2. Used in a figurative sense, muttons can refer to individuals who exhibit characteristics similar to the strong, mature qualities associated with mutton meat. This term is typically used in a colloquial or informal context and may describe someone who is experienced, wise, or assertive.
3. The slang term "muttons" can also refer to sleeves, particularly those that are puffy or bulky in appearance on a garment. It is commonly used in fashion or textile industries to describe a specific style or design feature. This usage is relatively less common in everyday conversation and is mostly confined to professional or specialized contexts.
Overall, muttons generally refer to meat from mature sheep, individuals displaying qualities of maturity or experience, or puffy sleeves on clothing items. It is important to note the context in which the word is used to fully grasp its intended meaning.
The word "muttons" is derived from the Middle English term "mutoun", which ultimately comes from the Old French word "mouton". This Old French term, in turn, was derived from the Late Latin word "multōnem", meaning "sheep". The term "muttons" refers to the plural form of "mutton", which typically denotes the meat of a mature sheep.
