unbutton

[ uhn-buht-n ]

verb (used with object)

1. to free (buttons) from buttonholes; unfasten or undo.
2. to unfasten by or as if by unbuttoning:

   to unbutton a jacket.

3. to disclose (one's feelings, thoughts, etc.) after deliberate or prolonged silence.

verb (used without object)

1. to unfasten a button or one's buttons.

unbutton

/ ʌnˈbʌtən /

verb

1. to undo by unfastening (the buttons) of (a garment)
2. informal.
   to release or relax (oneself, tension, etc)

Word History and Origins

Origin of unbutton¹

First recorded in 1275–1325, unbutton is from the Middle English word unbotenen. See un- ², button

Example Sentences

Navalny spent 295 days in solitary confinement, punished, according to the book, for violations including the top button of his fatigues being unbuttoned.

From BBC

He returned a minute later wearing a jean jacket vest, unbuttoned.

From Los Angeles Times

It made sense that he left the suit and tie in the closet when he returned to the studio — he’s the only talk show host still working in the unbuttoned 12:30 a.m. slot.

From Los Angeles Times

His shirt was unbuttoned to his belly button.

From Los Angeles Times

And as I leaned over, when I was talking to Jeff, I was unbuttoning his tunic, and then realized only the top three unbuttoned and it was actually done with a zip on the back.

From Salon