pearl

[pɜːrl]

pearl Definition

a hard, lustrous spherical mass, typically white or bluish-gray, formed within the shell of a pearl oyster or other bivalve mollusk and highly prized as a gem..

Using pearl: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pearl" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She wore a necklace of pearls.

  • Example

    The ring was set with a single pearl.

  • Example

    The diver found a large pearl in the oyster.

  • Example

    The queen's crown was adorned with pearls.

pearl Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pearl

Phrases with pearl

  • pearls of wisdom

    wise and insightful sayings or advice

    Example

    My grandmother always had pearls of wisdom to share with me.

  • cast pearls before swine

    to offer something valuable to someone who does not appreciate it

    Example

    I tried to explain the importance of education to him, but it was like casting pearls before swine.

  • a hard, iridescent substance that forms the inner layer of certain shells, used in decorative items

    Example

    The handle of the knife was made of mother of pearl.

Origins of pearl

from Middle English 'perle', from Old French 'perle', from Latin 'perna', meaning 'leg' (from the shape of the bivalve shell)

📌

Summary: pearl in Brief

A 'pearl' [pɜːrl] is a hard, lustrous, spherical mass, typically white or bluish-gray, formed within the shell of a pearl oyster or other bivalve mollusk and highly prized as a gem. It can be used to make jewelry such as necklaces and rings. The phrase 'pearls of wisdom' refers to wise and insightful sayings or advice.

How do native speakers use this expression?