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 Kendra Scott necklace features a dainty, mother-of-pearl shell pendant that shimmers in the sunlight.
—
Tessa Petak,
InStyle,
23 June 2026
Designers are now wrapping them in handwoven rattan, covering them in leather, and finishing them in mother-of-pearl.
—
Jaha Nailah Avery,
Architectural Digest,
15 June 2026
This wicker serving tray looks especially luxe with its mother-of-pearl inlay that’s full of summer style.
—
Caley Sturgill,
Southern Living,
11 June 2026
From a pair of Chanel mules accented with starfish charms to a mother-of-pearl shell hair clip, there’s no doubt this is a travel wardrobe destined for a sunny spot.
—
Elly Leavitt,
Vogue,
22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for mother-of-pearl
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Tessa Petak,
InStyle,
23 June 2026
Designers are now wrapping them in handwoven rattan, covering them in leather, and finishing them in mother-of-pearl.
—
Jaha Nailah Avery,
Architectural Digest,
15 June 2026
This wicker serving tray looks especially luxe with its mother-of-pearl inlay that’s full of summer style.
—
Caley Sturgill,
Southern Living,
11 June 2026
From a pair of Chanel mules accented with starfish charms to a mother-of-pearl shell hair clip, there’s no doubt this is a travel wardrobe destined for a sunny spot.
—
Elly Leavitt,
Vogue,
22 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for mother-of-pearl
Cite this Entry
“Mother-of-pearl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mother-of-pearl. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
