buttonhook

American  

[buht-n-hook] / ˈbʌt nˌhʊk /

noun

1. a small, usually metal hook for pulling buttons through buttonholes, as on gloves, dresses, breeches, etc.

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buttonhook British  

/ ˈbʌtənˌhʊk /

noun

1. a thin tapering hooked instrument formerly used for pulling buttons through the buttonholes of gloves, shoes, etc

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Etymology

Origin of buttonhook

First recorded in 1865–70; button + hook ¹

Example Sentences

I said now as the buttonhook in Betsie’s swift fingers sped up my shoes, “you could fit the fur hat right inside the bonnet! Then when you get outside, take the bonnet off!”

From Literature

Setting down my buttonhook, I rose to my feet.

From Literature

Some are emblazoned with catchy brand names like Presto, U-Neek and Pullezi, and their resourceful attachments include saws, hatchets, chisels and buttonhooks.

From New York Times

One was a crafty buttonhook route, where Watkins found a soft spot in the middle of the Denver defense and ran untouched 10 yards for the score.

From Washington Times

Sam Houston gave me a buttonhook, and Lamar gave me a pincushion shaped like a fat red tomato.

From Literature