Butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth meaning

The phrase "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" means that someone appears innocent or harmless despite potentially mischievous actions.


Butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth definitions

Word backwards rettub t'ndluow tlem ni s'eno htuom
Part of speech The part of speech of the phrase "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" is a metaphorical idiom. It is not a single word with a specific part of speech, but rather a phrase that conveys a specific meaning.
Syllabic division but-ter would-not melt in one's mouth
Plural The plural of the phrase "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" is simply "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouths."
Total letters 28
Vogais (4) u,e,o,i
Consonants (10) b,t,r,w,l,d,n,m,s,h

When someone says "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth," they are referring to a person who appears innocent or well-behaved on the surface, despite possibly being mischievous underneath. This phrase dates back to the 16th century and has been used to describe someone who seems sweet and harmless at first glance.

The Origin of the Phrase

The origins of this saying are not definitively known, but it likely stems from the fact that butter has a low melting point. When butter is warm or hot, it melts quickly and easily, making it a common phrase to describe someone's behavior as smooth and composed, yet potentially deceptive.

Symbolism and Metaphor

Butter has been used symbolically in various cultures to represent purity, richness, and indulgence. When someone is compared to butter that wouldn't melt in their mouth, it implies a contrast between their outward appearance and their true intentions or nature. This metaphor highlights the idea of hidden qualities beneath a facade of innocence.

Usage in Literature and Language

The phrase "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" has appeared in literature, plays, and everyday language as a way to describe someone who may appear harmless but may hold ulterior motives or secrets. It is a colorful expression that adds depth to descriptions and character portrayals.

Interpretation and Perception

How individuals interpret this phrase can vary based on their cultural background, personal experiences, and understanding of metaphors. Some may see it as a light-hearted way to describe someone's demeanor, while others may view it as a warning to look beyond appearances.

Overall, "butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth" is a fascinating phrase that captures the complexity of human behavior and the intricacies of perception. Whether used in storytelling, conversation, or contemplation, it adds a layer of nuance to how we understand others and ourselves.


Butter wouldn't melt in one's mouth Examples

  1. She acted all sweet and innocent, as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.
  2. His smile was so charming, it was as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.
  3. Despite the harsh criticism, she remained calm as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.
  4. His apology seemed insincere, as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.
  5. The politician's promises were so smooth, it was as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.
  6. She gossiped about everyone but always behaved as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.
  7. Her lies were so convincing, it was as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.
  8. The thief pretended to be innocent, as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.
  9. Despite his mischief, he looked angelic as if butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.
  10. Her betrayal was unexpected, as if butter wouldn't melt in her mouth.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 18/06/2024 - 22:54:27