figurative. Something likened to a butterfly, esp. in being flimsy, fragile, or ephemeral.

transferred, applied to what is slender or fragile.

figurative. In allusion to the fragility of the bulrush, or its delusive appearance of strength.

The wooden shaft or stem of a match. Frequently used as the type of something slight and flimsy.

pack of cards: in similative expressions as the type of something flimsy or liable to collapse.

A slight box of card-board or very thin chip covered with paper, for collars, caps, hats, and millinery; originally made for the ‘bands’ or ruffs of…