Pearl: meaning, definitions and examples

💎

Add to dictionary

pearl

[ˈpɜːrl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

jewelry

A smooth, typically round, lustrous white or grayish structure within the shell of a clam or oyster, used as a gem.

Synonyms

bead, gem, jewel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pearl	A pearl is a smooth, lustrous object found inside the shell of a mollusk, often used in jewelry. It is prized for its natural beauty and elegance. She wore a necklace made of beautiful pearls. The pearl earrings complemented her dress perfectly.
gem	A gem is a precious or semi-precious stone that is cut and polished for use in jewelry. Gems are valued for their rarity and beauty. The ring was set with a dazzling ruby gem. He gave her a necklace adorned with precious gems.
jewel	Jewel is a general term for precious stones and items of fine jewelry, often set in precious metals. It is usually associated with luxury and wealth. She wore an exquisite jewel-encrusted tiara. The museum displayed ancient jewels from various cultures.
bead	Bead refers to small, rounded objects with holes in them, typically used in making jewelry, crafts, or decorations. They can be made of various materials, such as glass, wood, or plastic. She threaded colorful beads to create unique bracelets. The curtain was made of wooden beads.

Examples of usage

She wore a beautiful pearl necklace to the party.
The pearl earrings shimmered in the sunlight.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

quality

Something rare and valuable.

Synonyms

gem, jewel, treasure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pearl	Pearls are typically used to describe a specific type of gem found inside oysters. They can also metaphorically describe something very valuable or rare in a non-material context. She wore a beautiful pearl necklace to the event. Her advice was a pearl of wisdom.
treasure	Treasure typically refers to a collection of valuable objects like gold, silver, and other precious items. It conveys a sense of great value and can be used metaphorically for anything greatly loved or valued. They found a chest full of pirate treasure on the island. His grandfather's watch was a family treasure.
gem	Gems refer to precious and semi-precious stones that are cut and polished for use in jewelry. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something or someone very special or excellent. He gave her a ring with a sparkling blue gem. The new employee is a real gem.
jewel	Jewels are valuable stones, often set in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry, highlighting their ornamental use. The term can also be used figuratively to describe something treasured or highly cherished. Her crown was adorned with jewels of every color. The quiet library was the jewel of the campus.

Examples of usage

Her wisdom is a real pearl in this group of people.
The old book was a pearl among her collection.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

music

To produce a series of harmonious sounds.

Synonyms

perform, play, produce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pearl	Use when referring to a shiny, typically white, precious object found inside oysters. Often used metaphorically to describe something rare and precious. She wore a beautiful pearl necklace. His advice was a pearl of wisdom.
play	Suitable for activities done for enjoyment and amusement, such as games, sports, or musical instruments. It can also refer to acting in a theater. Children love to play games during recess. She will play the lead role in the play.
perform	Applicable when talking about carrying out an action, especially in a skilled or artistic way such as music, dance, or a play. Also used for other tasks requiring effort. The band will perform at the concert tonight. Doctors performed surgery successfully.
produce	Use when talking about creating, manufacturing, or bringing something into existence, especially on a large scale or through a systematic process. Can also refer to agricultural products. The factory produces thousands of cars each year. Fresh produce is available at the local market.

Examples of usage

The pianist will pearl the keys with great skill.
The violinist can pearl the strings effortlessly.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old French 'perle', which has roots in Latin 'perla', meaning 'a small stone'.
In ancient Latin texts, 'perlad' referred to a round object, highlighting its round shape.
Throughout history, different cultures had unique names for pearls. For example, in Sanskrit, they were known as 'muktā'.

History

Pearls have been valued for thousands of years; they were used as currency in some cultures.
The Roman Empire prized pearls so much that they were often associated with great wealth and royal status.
In ancient China, pearls were believed to bring good luck and were sometimes used in medicine.

Science

Pearls are formed inside oysters as a defense mechanism against irritants like sand or parasites.
The layers of nacre (mother-of-pearl) build up over time, creating the pearl's unique luster.
Natural pearls are incredibly rare; most pearls found today are cultured, meaning they are farmed by humans.

Pop Culture

In the famous children's story 'The Pearl' by John Steinbeck, a pearl symbolizes hope and greed.
Pearls have been featured in numerous songs and literature as a symbol of beauty and perfection.
The phrase 'a pearl of wisdom' refers to valuable advice, showcasing how pearls are often viewed as precious.

Fashion

Pearls are a classic choice in jewelry, symbolizing elegance, and are often worn at formal events.
In the early 20th century, flapper style popularized pearl necklaces as a fashionable accessory.
Modern fashion icons continue to embrace pearls, making them a staple in both high-end and casual wear.

Translations

Translations of the word "pearl" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pérola

🇮🇳 मोती

🇩🇪 Perle

🇮🇩 mutiara

🇺🇦 перлина

🇵🇱 perła

🇯🇵 真珠 (しんじゅ)

🇫🇷 perle

🇪🇸 perla

🇹🇷 inci

🇰🇷 진주

🇸🇦 لؤلؤة

🇨🇿 perla

🇸🇰 perla

🇨🇳 珍珠

🇸🇮 biser

🇮🇸 perla

🇰🇿 маржан

🇬🇪 მარგალიტი

🇦🇿 inci

🇲🇽 perla

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,459, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10456 uphold
10457 gulf
10458 fraternity
10459 pearl
10460 diving
10461 staffing
10462 infinity
...