What is a "buttonhole"?

A buttonhole is a small slit or hole in a garment, designed to hold a button securely in place when fastened. It is typically created by cutting an opening in the fabric and reinforcing the edges with stitching. Buttonholes can be found on a variety of clothing items, including shirts, jackets, and pants, and are often paired with buttons or snaps to provide a secure closure. They can vary in size, shape, and placement, depending on the design of the garment and the intended use of the button or closure. Buttonholes may be worked by hand or machine, and are a common feature in many styles of clothing.