scrimshaw

[ skrim-shaw ]
/ ˈskrɪmˌʃɔ /

noun

a carved or engraved article, especially of whale ivory, whalebone, walrus tusks, or the like, made by whalers as a leisure occupation.
such articles or work collectively.
the art or technique of carving or engraving whale ivory, whalebone, walrus tusks, etc.

verb (used without object)

to produce scrimshaw.

verb (used with object)

to carve or engrave (whale ivory or whalebone) into scrimshaw.

Origin of scrimshaw

First recorded in 1860–65; of obscure origin

Example sentences from the Web for scrimshaw

British Dictionary definitions for scrimshaw

scrimshaw
/ (ˈskrɪmˌʃɔː) /

noun

the art of decorating or carving shells, ivory, etc, done by sailors as a leisure activity
  1. an article made in this manner
  2. such articles collectively

verb

to produce scrimshaw (from)

Word Origin for scrimshaw

C19: origin uncertain, perhaps after a surname