shell

²shell

verb

Definition of SHELL

transitive verb

1

a : to take out of a natural enclosing cover (as a shell, husk, pod, or capsule) <shell peanuts> b : to separate the kernels of (as an ear of Indian corn, wheat, or oats) from the cob, ear, or husk

2

: to throw shells at, upon, or into : bombard

3

: to score heavily against (as an opposing pitcher in baseball)

intransitive verb

1

: to fall or scale off in thin pieces

2

: to cast the shell or exterior covering : fall out of the pod or husk <nuts which shell in falling>

3

: to gather shells (as from a beach)

Examples of SHELL

1. They shelled the enemy troops.
2. The town was shelled during the battle.

First Known Use of SHELL

1562

Related to SHELL

Synonyms: bark, flay, hull, husk, peel, shuck, skin

Related Words: bare, denude, expose, scale, strip; pare

see all synonyms and antonyms

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