Pronunciation: [bˈʌtəfˌɪŋɡəd] (IPA) 
The word "butterfingered" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈbʌt.ər.fɪŋ.ɡərd/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound as in "but", followed by the "er" sound as in "butter". The second syllable has a short "i" sound as in "pin", and the third syllable ends with the "ing" sound as in "finger". The word means someone who is clumsy or drops things easily, as if they have fingers coated in butter.
Butterfingered is an adjective used to describe someone who has a tendency to be clumsy or awkward in handling objects, often resulting in the dropping or fumbling of items. The term originated from the idea that a person's hands are as slippery as a buttery finger. Individuals who are butterfingered often find it difficult to maintain a firm grip on objects, leading to frequent accidents and mishaps.
Being butterfingered implies a lack of dexterity or coordination, causing the person to make regular mistakes or display an inability to handle objects with precision. This can manifest in various situations, such as dropping plates or glasses, fumbling with keys, knocking over objects, or even stumbling over something while walking.
People who are labeled as butterfingered often feel embarrassed or frustrated by their tendency to be clumsy. It is important to note that being butterfingered is not necessarily a permanent trait and can be improved with practice and mindfulness. Activities such as playing sports, engaging in exercises that enhance hand-eye coordination, or paying closer attention to one's movements can help to reduce clumsiness and improve dexterity.
Overall, butterfingered refers to an individual who is prone to clumsiness and regularly makes mistakes or drops objects due to lack of coordination or a poor grip.
The word "butterfingered" is derived from two components: "butter" and "fingered".
The term "butter" in this context does not refer to the dairy product but instead is used figuratively to describe something that is smooth, soft, or slippery. This usage originated in the 17th century and is believed to come from the idea of butter being easy to handle due to its smoothness. Over time, it began to be used metaphorically to describe things that were difficult to grasp or hold onto.
The word "fingered" in "butterfingered" is the past participle of the verb "to finger". This usage of "fingered" means to handle or touch something with the fingers. When combined with "butter", it creates the idea of someone who is clumsy or incapable of handling things properly.
