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

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

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Linen Shirt Linen shirts are understandably coded as laidback, but Ralph Lauren Purple Label raises the style to Olympic standards with details like genuine mother-of-pearl buttons and a wide spread collar. — Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026

Central to the collection is the brand’s Éclat de Joie star, a multifaceted motif rendered in diamonds and natural stones including malachite, mother-of-pearl and onyx. — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 27 July 2026

This modern take on an ageless silhouette offers a hint of sheen from sateen, mother-of-pearl front buttons, and a bit of stretch for all-day comfort. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 20 July 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