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

Extra-luxe finishes, such as mother-of-pearl facing and leather straps, display high craftsmanship and impeccable attention to detail. —Kristina Rutkowski, Glamour, 22 Jan. 2026

Beneath its hunter-style case is a timepiece with a mother-of-pearl dial and diamond hour markers surrounded by sun-ray engraving. —Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 19 Jan. 2026

Lauren had only designed three wedding dresses before crafting Chopra's intricate lace gown, which was encrusted with 2,380,000 mother-of-pearl sequins. —Hannah Malach, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026

They can be purchased separately, or as part of the new Beginner’s Tasting Kit, which also includes Salmon Roe, White Sturgeon Caviar, crème fraîche, potato chips, a tin opener, and a mother-of-pearl spoon, all packaged in a beautiful blue case. —Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Dec. 2025

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