A shirt button refers to a small fastening device predominantly used in clothing, specifically to secure the front opening of a shirt. It is commonly made of various materials such as plastic, metal, or even fabric, depending on the desired look and functionality.
Typically round in shape, a shirt button consists of two components: a disc-shaped button with a small hole in the center and a corresponding loop or threadhole on the opposite fabric piece. To fasten the shirt, the button is passed through the loop or hole and then pulled back to secure it, minimizing the exposure of the wearer's chest.
Shirt buttons serve a dual purpose of both functional and decorative elements in clothing. While they primarily anchor the front of a shirt, preventing it from flapping open, they may also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the garment. Button styles, sizes, and designs vary widely, offering options for personalization and fashion choices.
Besides shirts, this fastening mechanism is also commonly found in dress shirts, blouses, cardigans, and other types of clothing where a front opening closure is required. While traditionally associated with men's apparel, the use of shirt buttons extends to women's clothing as well.
Overall, the shirt button is an essential component of clothing, providing both practical and stylistic advantages in securing and enhancing the appearance of shirts and other garments.
The word "shirt" comes from the Old English word "scyrte" or "scyrte", which originally referred to a loose-fitting garment. The word "button" has Middle English roots, derived from the Old French word "bouton" meaning "knob" or "bud". In the context of shirts, a "shirt button" refers to the small disk-like object used to fasten or secure the front opening of a shirt. The combination of "shirt" and "button" essentially describes the purpose and function of this specific type of button.