vlinderen

Meaning

1. (intransitive) to flutter
2. (intransitive) to swim the butterfly stroke
3. (transitive) to smooth a new concrete floor using a trowel or some other tool
4. (intransitive) to observe butterflies (recreationally or for scientific purposes)

Etymology

Of uncertain origin; first attested in 1591. In the primary sense of "to flutter" this verb is likely not denominative from vlinder (attested 1567), which is assumed to be deverbal from this verb. Compare Middle Dutch vliendermuis (“bat, flittermouse”) (attested 1485) and German flindern (“to flutter”); more at vlinder. The sense "to swim using the butterfly stroke" however is based on vlinderslag, and the sense "to observe butterflies" is denominative from vlinder. The sense "to smooth using a trowel" refers to the fluttering movement characteristic of this technique.