Pearl: meaning, definitions and examples

💎

Add to dictionary

pearl

[ ˈpɜːrl ]

^{Context #1}

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

Examples of usage

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

^{Context #2}

quality

Something rare and valuable.

Synonyms

gem, jewel, treasure

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}

music

To produce a series of harmonious sounds.

Synonyms

perform, play, produce

Examples of usage

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

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 origin

The word 'pearl' originated from the Old French 'perle' and the Latin 'perna' meaning 'leg', as the mollusk's body part that produces pearls was thought to resemble a leg. Pearls have been highly valued as gemstones for centuries and have been associated with purity, beauty, and wealth. They have been used in jewelry and adornments across various cultures and time periods, symbolizing luxury and elegance.