terra-cotta

noun

ter·​ra-cot·​ta ˌter-ə-ˈkä-tə 

often attributive

1

: a glazed or unglazed fired clay used especially for statuettes and vases and architectural purposes (as for roofing, facing, and relief ornamentation)

also : something made of this material

2

: a brownish orange

Examples of terra-cotta in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Instead, choose pots and planters made of terra-cotta, which will age more naturally. —Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Aug. 2025

Peruse the unusual looking St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, which is all stone with a terra-cotta roof; visitors enter through the bell tower. —Ashlea Halpern, AFAR Media, 1 Aug. 2025

From crisp white subway to earthy terra-cotta, the right paint color can enhance your tile’s natural beauty and create a cohesive look. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 July 2025

This particular example features a 38 mm case in stainless steel, a striking terra-cotta–colored dial, and a steel bracelet with beautifully rounded links. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 5 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian terra cotta, literally, baked earth

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for terra-cotta

• biota
• iota
• lakota
• nonquota
• ricotta
• chota
• cota
• quota

Kids Definition

terra-cotta

noun

ter·​ra-cot·​ta

ˌter-ə-ˈkät-ə

plural terra-cottas

1

: a glazed or unglazed baked clay used for pottery, statues, and building materials

also : something made of this material

2

: a brownish orange

Etymology

from Italian terra cotta, literally "baked earth," derived from Latin terra "earth" and Latin coquere "to cook"