butterflies

Noun

butterflies noun

1. (by ellipsis) butterflies in one's stomach

butterflies noun

1. A flying insect of the order Lepidoptera, distinguished from moths by their diurnal activity and generally brighter colouring.
2. A use of surgical tape, cut into thin strips and placed across an open wound to hold it closed.“butterfly tape”
3. The butterfly stroke.
4. (in plural) A sensation of excited anxiety felt in the stomach.“I get terrible butterflies before an exam.”

Verb

butterflies verb

1. To cut (food) almost entirely in half and spread the halves apart, in a shape suggesting the wings of a butterfly.“Butterfly the chicken before you grill it.”
2. To cut strips of surgical tape or plasters into thin strips, and place across (a gaping wound) to close it.