All buttoned up
Meaning
To be completely prepared, organized, or finished with something, leaving no loose ends.
Origin
The phrase draws its imagery from the literal act of buttoning up a garment, which signifies completion, neatness, and readiness. Just as a coat or shirt is fully fastened and secured when all buttons are in their proper holes, the idiom conveys a state of total preparedness or finality. It implies that every detail has been meticulously attended to, every last element secured, and everything is in its place, leaving no part undone or exposed. This simple, everyday action of dressing became a vivid metaphor for thoroughness and resolution.
Examples
- Before the big launch, Sarah made sure all the marketing materials were all buttoned up.
- The legal team worked tirelessly to get the acquisition agreement all buttoned up by the deadline.