eggshell

1 of 2

noun

egg·​shell ˈeg-ˌshel How to pronounce eggshell (audio)
ˈāg-
1
: the hard exterior covering of an egg
2
: something resembling an eggshell especially in fragility

eggshell

2 of 2

adjective

1
: thin and fragile
2
: slightly glossy
3
: yellowish white

Examples of eggshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Noun
The overall impression was one of an ensemble walking on eggshells: little spark, little levity, little variety, too much weighty reverence. Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2025 Instead of trashing your eggshells, start using them as a multipurpose cleaner. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 June 2025
Adjective
Tiles and Grout According to Duarte, eggshell powder and vinegar or citric acid works wonders on tiles and grout. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 June 2025 The recipe and the list of ingredients to make eggshell water are quite simple: Boil a gallon of water. Stacey Leasca, Southern Living, 7 May 2024 See All Example Sentences for eggshell

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of eggshell was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eggshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eggshell. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

eggshell

1 of 2 noun
egg·​shell -ˌshel How to pronounce eggshell (audio)
: the shell of an egg

eggshell

2 of 2 adjective
1
: being thin and fragile
eggshell china
2
: slightly glossy

Medical Definition

eggshell

noun
egg·​shell ˈeg-ˌshel, ˈāg- How to pronounce eggshell (audio)
: the hard exterior covering of an egg
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!