mother-of-pearl

[ muhth -er-uh v-purl ]
/ ˈmʌð ər əvˈpɜrl /

noun

a hard, iridescent substance that forms the inner layer of certain mollusk shells, used for making buttons, beads, etc.; nacre.

adjective

of or having the qualities of mother-of-pearl, as being iridescent or pearly: mother-of-pearl buttons.

Origin of mother-of-pearl

1500–10; compare Italian madreperla, obsolete French mère perle

Words nearby mother-of-pearl

mother's helper, mother-in-law, mother-in-law plant, mother-in-law's tongue, mother-naked, mother-of-pearl, mother-of-pearl cloud, mother-of-pearl glass, mother-of-pearl moth, mother-of-thousands, mother-of-thyme

British Dictionary definitions for mother of pearl

mother-of-pearl

noun

a hard iridescent substance, mostly calcium carbonate, that forms the inner layer of the shells of certain molluscs, such as the oyster. It is used to make buttons, inlay furniture, etc Also called: nacre Related adjective: nacreous

Scientific definitions for mother of pearl

mother-of-pearl

The hard, smooth, pearly layer on the inside of certain seashells, such as abalones and certain oysters. It is used to make buttons and jewelry. Also called nacre