mother-of-pearl

noun

moth·​er-of-pearl ˌmə-t͟hə-rə(v)-ˈpər(-ə)l 

: the hard pearly iridescent substance forming the inner layer of a mollusk shell

Examples of mother-of-pearl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This Pumpkin Gold short pendant necklace in ivory mother-of-pearl, $65 by Kendra Scott is a charming seasonal take on the classic pendant style. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 25 Oct. 2024

The dial is decorated with cloisonné enamel, combined with decorative elements in mother-of-pearl and purple BlueGold—21ct gold mixed with iron elements and heat-treated to a radiant shade of blue, or in this case pink-purple. —Carol Besler, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2024

Traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer have been used to create a bottle that is another aspect of this work of art. —Mark Littler, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

These mother-of-pearl inlays create a luxurious shimmer, adding a unique and elegant touch to the fan’s design. —New Atlas, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1510, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

mother-of-pearl

noun

moth·​er-of-pearl

ˌmət͟h-ə-rə(v)-ˈpər(-ə)l

: the hard pearly material that lines the shell of some mollusks (as mussels) and is often used for ornamental objects and buttons