eggshell

1 of 2

noun

egg·​shell ˈeg-ˌshel 

ˈāg-

1

: the hard exterior covering of an egg

2

: something resembling an eggshell especially in fragility

eggshell

2 of 2

adjective

1

: thin and fragile

2

: slightly glossy

3

: yellowish white

Examples of eggshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

But no matter the shade, both designers prefer an eggshell finish for the walls, a satin finish for the trim and doors, and an ultra-flat finish for the ceiling, which creates dimension when using a single color. —Emma Guillen, Southern Living, 18 Nov. 2025

The ancient crocodile eggshells are helping scientists to understand the anatomy of these reptiles, as well as their reproduction patterns and adaptability, the study’s lead author, Xavier Panadès i Blas, said. —Chris Lau, CNN Money, 13 Nov. 2025

Adjective

Tiles and Grout According to Duarte, eggshell powder and vinegar or citric acid works wonders on tiles and grout. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 June 2025

The recipe and the list of ingredients to make eggshell water are quite simple: Boil a gallon of water. —Stacey Leasca, Southern Living, 7 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for eggshell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

eggshell

1 of 2 noun

egg·​shell -ˌshel 

: the shell of an egg

eggshell

2 of 2 adjective

1

: being thin and fragile

eggshell china

2

: slightly glossy

Medical Definition

eggshell

noun

egg·​shell ˈeg-ˌshel, ˈāg- 

: the hard exterior covering of an egg