buttermilk

noun

but·​ter·​milk ˈbə-tər-ˌmilk How to pronounce buttermilk (audio)
1
: the liquid left after butter has been churned from milk or cream
2
: cultured milk made by the addition of suitable bacteria to sweet milk

Examples of buttermilk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition to classic ingredients like crunchy celery and creamy mayonnaise, this version adds smoky bacon pieces and all the seasonings and ingredients that make a tangy ranch like buttermilk, parsley, garlic, and onion. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 13 May 2026 Of course, the pancakes are the big draw, including buttermilk and buckwheat flapjacks stuffed with fruit. Caroline Eubanks, Travel + Leisure, 11 May 2026 The chicken is dredged in a seasoned flour and buttermilk, and then fried to a golden brown. Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 8 May 2026 Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to butter mixture, beating on low speed after each addition just until combined. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for buttermilk

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of buttermilk was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Buttermilk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buttermilk. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

buttermilk

noun
but·​ter·​milk ˈbət-ər-ˌmilk How to pronounce buttermilk (audio)
1
: the liquid left after the butterfat has been churned from milk or cream
2
: milk from which all or part of the cream has been removed and which has been soured by adding certain bacteria

Medical Definition

buttermilk

noun
but·​ter·​milk ˈbət-ər-ˌmilk How to pronounce buttermilk (audio)
1
: the liquid left after butter has been churned from milk or cream
2
: cultured milk made by the addition of suitable bacteria to sweet milk

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