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Nacre Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nacre

[หˆneษชkษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

material quality

Nacre, often referred to as mother-of-pearl, is a smooth and iridescent substance produced by some mollusks. It is formed as a protective layer inside the shells of certain species, serving to coat and protect irritants that enter the shell. Nacre is primarily composed of aragonite and conchiolin, making it both durable and aesthetically pleasing. It is commonly used in jewelry and ornamentation due to its lustrous appearance. The unique layering of nacre also contributes to its structural resilience.

Synonyms

mother-of-pearl, pearl layer.

Examples of usage

  • The necklace was adorned with beautiful nacre shells.
  • Nacre gives pearls their stunning iridescence.
  • They crafted stunning jewelry pieces using nacre.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Nacre is made from aragonite and conchiolin, which together create its unique structure and shine.
  • Its layered structure is known for its toughness, making it more resilient than some metals, which is why itโ€™s used in jewelry.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, nacre is seen as a symbol of purity and beauty often associated with the ocean.
  • Jewelry made from nacre has been worn for thousands of years in various cultures, signifying wealth and elegance.

Art and Design

  • Artists have used nacre in decorative items and artisan crafts, adding a unique luster to artworks.
  • In architecture, nacre is sometimes imitated in design elements that aim to replicate its glowing quality.

Pop Culture

  • Nacre has appeared in various films and literature, often symbolizing mystery and beauty from the depths of the sea.
  • The term has also been used in fashion, especially in brands that focus on ocean-inspired designs.

Origin of 'nacre'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French 'nacre', which itself is derived from the Latin 'nacra', meaning 'mother-of-pearl'.
  • In various languages, terms for nacre often relate to the ocean or shells, highlighting its marine origins.

The word 'nacre' originates from the Middle French term 'nacre', which is derived from the Latin word 'nacra', believed to have come from Arabic 'naqr' meaning 'to drill'. This history traces back to ancient civilizations that admired the beauty of what we now call mother-of-pearl found in the shells of marine mollusks. The term has evolved over centuries, maintaining its connection to the beautiful, iridescent layer that forms inside shells. Nacre has been used by cultures around the world for art and decoration, showcasing its enduring appeal through history.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,287, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.