noun
butterball
noun
1
A small North American duck (the bufflehead) known for its plump, rounded shape.
"A butterball paddled quietly near the reeds."
2
An overweight person, used informally and often unkindly.
"He joked about being a butterball after the holidays."
How to Use Butterball
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA round, plump duck species, or informally, a chubby person.
When to use it
The "overweight person" sense is informal and can be considered insulting.
Word Forms
butterballs plural
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A _____ paddled quietly near the reeds.
Etymology
From butter plus ball.