[but.ter] n [ME, fr. OE butere, fr. L butyrum, fr. Gk boutyron, fr. bous cow + tyros cheese; akin to Av tuiri- curds--more at cow] (bef. 12c) 1: a solid emulsion of fat globules, air, and water made by churning milk or cream and used as food
2: a buttery substance: as a: any of various fatty oils remaining nearly solid at ordinary temperatures b: a creamy food spread; esp: one made of ground roasted nuts "peanut ~"
3: flattery -- but.ter.less adj
[2]butter vt (15c): to spread with or as if with butter