View synonyms for bread and butter

bread and butter

noun

bread spread with butter.
a basic means of support; source of livelihood; sustenance:
The automobile industry is the bread and butter of many Detroiters.

bread-and-butter

[ bred-n-buht-er ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

providing a livelihood or basic source of income; supplying the basic needs of life:
a bread-and-butter job; the agency's bread-and-butter account.
of or relating to basic needs:
housing and other bread-and-butter political issues.
basic or everyday; staple; routine.
expressing thanks for hospitality:
a bread-and-butter letter.

bread and butter

modifier a means of support or subsistence; livelihood
the inheritance was their bread and butter
bread-and-butter
bread-and-butter
1. providing a basic means of subsistence
  a bread-and-butter job
2. solid, reliable, or practical
  a bread-and-butter player
3. expressing gratitude, as for hospitality (esp in the phrase bread-and-butter letter )

First recorded in 1620–30

First recorded in 1720–30; adj. use of noun phrase bread and butter

“I knew Boyfriend would never really have its chance unless it became my bread-and-butter,” she says.

Get immigration done and the party will be able to compete again on bread-and-butter issues with most of the electorate.

It's easy to see how a governor with a proven track record and a focus on bread-and-butter issues could do well.

Isnt anything but bread-and-butter, and such things, appealing to you in life, child?

Paul went on talking in a quiet, low tone, while Digby was munching a thick slice of bread-and-butter.

In an incautious moment, influenced by the idea of saving her bread-and-butter, Mrs Pike gave up the key.

Phebe, do you think there's any chance of cook's giving us some cake, or even some bread-and-butter, to take with us?'

But I meant that Algernon has shown his sense in not selecting a bread-and-butter Miss.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse