often attributive
1
a
: an earthy material that is plastic when moist but hard when fired, that is composed mainly of fine particles of hydrous aluminum silicates and other minerals, and that is used for brick, tile, and pottery
specifically
: soil composed chiefly of this material having particles less than a specified size
2
a
: a substance that resembles clay in plasticity and is used for modeling
b
: the human body as distinguished from the spirit
c
: fundamental nature or character
the common clay
3
Examples of clay in a Sentence
had the feeling that the natives were of a different clay than us and that neither side would ever understand the other
Recent Examples on the Web
Poor Drainage Heavy clay and soggy soil can suffocate hydrangea roots and lead to root rot, eventually ending with the demise of your plant.
—
Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 June 2026
The Dolphins have three moldable pieces of clay in Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers.
—Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 7 June 2026
When Andreeva executed a backhand cross-court winner on her first match point, the Russian dropped to her knees on the clay to celebrate.
—Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026
Provide Good Soil Roses do not like overly wet conditions, so avoid heavy clay soils.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for clay
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Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 June 2026
The Dolphins have three moldable pieces of clay in Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers.
—Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 7 June 2026
When Andreeva executed a backhand cross-court winner on her first match point, the Russian dropped to her knees on the clay to celebrate.
—Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026
Provide Good Soil Roses do not like overly wet conditions, so avoid heavy clay soils.
—Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for clay
Cite this Entry
“Clay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clay. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
clay
noun1
: an earthy material that is sticky and easily molded when wet and hard when baked
2
: a plastic substance used like clay for modeling
Biographical Definition
Clay
2 of 2biographical name (2)
Lucius Du Bi*gnon
du̇-ˈbin-yən 
1897–1978 American general
1897–1978 American general
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