pearl

¹pearl

noun \ˈpər(-ə)l\

Definition of PEARL

1

a : a dense variously colored and usually lustrous concretion formed of concentric layers of nacre as an abnormal growth within the shell of some mollusks and used as a gem b : mother-of-pearl

2

: one that is very choice or precious

3

: something resembling a pearl intrinsically or physically

4

: a nearly neutral slightly bluish medium gray

Examples of PEARL

1. She wore a string of pearls.
2. Pearls of dew glistened on the grass.

Origin of PEARL

Middle English perle, from Anglo-French, probably from Vulgar Latin *pernula, diminutive of Latin perna upper leg, kind of sea mussel; akin to Old English fiersn heel, Greek pternē

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Jewelry Terms

bijou, brilliant, chase, facet, lapidary, paste