“Butterfingers” is a humorous term for a person who drops things they are carrying or trying to catch. It is normally playful or teasing; because it labels a person’s clumsiness, tone and relationship matter when using it about someone else.
ReviewedEvidence1 sourceSectionPhrases & Idioms
Quick answer
Is a humorous term for a person who drops things they are carrying or trying to catch
Key details
Canonical FormButterfingers
Core Meaningis a humorous term for a person who drops things they are carrying or trying to catch
Further guidance
History Boundary
This guide explains documented current meaning and does not claim a single inventor, exact coinage date, or absolute first use without direct evidence.
Meaning
is a humorous term for a person who drops things they are carrying or trying to catch
Usage Boundary
It is normally playful or teasing; because it labels a person’s clumsiness, tone and relationship matter when using it about someone else.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
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