Butter wouldn't melt

[jeanette1976]

What does it mean?I've heard it loads of times and kinda got the gist of it, but I'm not really sure. X

[Mr Darcy]

I think it means something about being shy or innocent looking.

[jeanette1976]

Yes, I think you're right.... and the conversation about the person usually follows onto the fact that they're the spawn of the devil or something.

Cheers for clearing that one up. X

[JudgeJ]

It relates more to innocence than shyness or timidity. Somebody whom may well be guilty of something can manage to look innocent. So innocent that "butter would not melt in his mouth". It is used to convey the impression that he is such a goody two-shoes, that he could not even be guilty of damaging the butter by melting it - something that he could not possibly manage to avoid.

[Quizmonster]

Click here for a detailed explanation and background.