pearl

B2
Pronunciation
/pɜːl/
/pɝl/
Noun
12 definition(s)
1 Definition

A shelly concretion, usually rounded, and having a brilliant luster, with varying tints, found in the mantle, or between the mantle and shell, of certain bivalve mollusks, especially in the pearl oysters and river mussels, and sometimes in certain univalves. It is usually due to a secretion of shelly substance around some irritating foreign particle. Its substance is the same as nacre, or mother-of-pearl. Round lustrous pearls are used in jewellery.

2 Definition

Something precious.

3 Definition

A capsule of gelatin or similar substance containing liquid for e.g. medicinal application.

4 Definition

Nacre, or mother-of-pearl.

5 Definition

A whitish speck or film on the eye.

6 Definition

A fish allied to the turbot; the brill.

7 Definition

A light-colored tern.

8 Definition

One of the circle of tubercles which form the bur on a deer's antler.

9 Definition

The size of type between diamond and agate, standardized as 5-point.

10 Definition

A fringe or border.

11 Definition

A jewel or gem.

12 Definition

The clitoris.

Verb
6 definition(s)
1 Definition

(sometimes figurative) To set or adorn with pearls, or with mother-of-pearl.

2 Definition

To cause to resemble pearls in shape; to make into small round grains.

Example Sentences
  • to pearl barley
3 Definition

To cause to resemble pearls in lustre or iridescence.

4 Definition

To resemble pearl or pearls.

5 Definition

To hunt for pearls

Example Sentences
  • to go pearling
6 Definition

To dig the nose of one's surfboard into the water, often on takeoff.