Alias · Guard
Butterfly top
Also known as Top Butterfly Guard — the canonical term used on this site.
Top-perspective butterfly guard configuration
Butterfly top is the top-perspective name for the butterfly guard configuration — describing the position from the passer’s vantage point as they engage the bottom player’s inserted hooks.
Etymology. “Butterfly” attaches the target-position name; “top” specifies the passer perspective. The compound predominates in instructional contexts that frame the butterfly from the top-passing perspective.
Mechanics. The top player works to destabilise the hook leverage — the bottom player’s inserted feet provide the elevation force, and removing or neutralising the hooks opens pass paths.
Cross-reference. “Passing butterfly” is the action-oriented alternate name. Full mechanical coverage on Top Butterfly.