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

That exceptionally solid architecture is juxtaposed with a soft, pink mother-of-pearl dial. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 Sep. 2026

Their sculptural jewelry aims to elevate brass as a noble material and integrate local elements like wood, mother-of-pearl and sand resin, working with local artisans. — Alex Wynne, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

The body was then finished in an iridescent mother-of-pearl white, providing a suitably extravagant backdrop for the jewelry-like detailing. — New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2026

They are often colored blue, black, or dark brown on the outside, with interiors made of the shining nacre, or mother-of-pearl, layer. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1510, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mother-of-pearl

• burl
• churl
• earl
• girl
• hurl
• merl
• merle
• perle
• swirl
• twirl
• whirl
• whorl

Kids Definition

mother-of-pearl

noun

moth·​er-of-pearl

ˌmət͟h-ə-rə(v)-ˈpər(-ə)l

: the hard pearly material that lines the shell of some mollusks (as mussels) and is often used for ornamental objects and buttons