bread and butter

Definitions

1. 1

   That which is central or fundamental, as to one's business, survival, or income

   That which is central or fundamental, as to one's business, survival, or income; a staple or cornerstone.

   • They will do some machining if you ask them, but sheet metal has always been their bread and butter.
   • Every escort has at least one or two regular clients; they are our bread and butter.
2. 2

   The basic requirements of living, such as food and housing.

3. 3

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see bread, butter.

   • The bread-and-butter were good enough, but the ale poorish.
   • [I]n the centre stood an enormous table laid for tea—four cups and saucers, piles of bread and butter, crumpets, coconut cakes and a large plum cake with pink icing.
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      Said when two people walking together are temporarily separated by an obstacle in order…

      Said when two people walking together are temporarily separated by an obstacle in order to indicate that they belong together.

      • Should this happen, retrace your steps to the point of separation if you wish to counteract the spell. Or, say the words "bread and butter."
      • "Bread and butter," the larger of the two women quipped as they moved past their Nancy-obstacle. "Bread and butter!".

The neighborhood