Idiom Breakdown

button one's lip

Talking

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Definition

To remain silent, especially in order to keep a secret or to avoid saying something inappropriate.

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In Context

""Yes," put in Solomon. "I've been tipped off to this guy Mars, and you'd better tell him to button up his lip and not start anything.""
""We advised John not to talk, to button his lip, but he talked anyway.""
"Busch wisely buttoned his lip and didn't say anything else."

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Also Said As

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See Also

button it