Seashells: meaning, definitions and examples

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seashells

[ˈsiːˌʃɛlz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

on the beach

Hard outer covering of a sea creature, typically found on the shore. Seashells come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, often used for decoration or collecting.

Synonyms

mollusk shell, shell, shellfish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seashells	This term is often used when talking about decorative, collectible objects found on the beach. It evokes a sense of beauty and leisure. She collected seashells during her walk along the shoreline The children were excited to find colorful seashells in the sand
shell	A very general term that can refer to the hard outer covering of various animals, not limited to those found in the sea. It can be used in everyday conversations and doesn't specify the type of shell being referred to. He picked up a small, broken shell from the sand Turtles carry their shells on their backs for protection
shellfish	Used commonly in culinary contexts or when referring to seafood. It can imply edible marine animals with shells, such as clams, crabs, and oysters. The restaurant is famous for its fresh shellfish dishes She is allergic to shellfish, so she avoids seafood restaurants
mollusk shell	This term is more scientific or academic, used in discussions about marine biology or the anatomy of sea creatures. The researcher studied the mollusk shells to understand more about marine ecosystems The book included detailed diagrams of different types of mollusk shells

Examples of usage

Children love to collect seashells on the beach.
The seashells were scattered along the shore.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in marine biology

The exoskeleton of a marine mollusk or crustacean, used for protection and support. Seashells are composed of calcium carbonate and are often studied by marine biologists.

Synonyms

crustacean shell, mollusk shell, shell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seashells	Commonly used to describe a variety of shells found on the beach, collected as souvenirs, or used in decoration. I love collecting seashells when I walk along the shore Her bathroom is decorated with colorful seashells
shell	A general term that can refer to different types of shells from various animals, including terrestrial and marine. Often needs more context to be clear. She found a beautiful shell on the beach The turtle's shell provides it with protection
mollusk shell	Refers to the hard external protective layer of mollusks such as clams, snails, and oysters. Often used in scientific or environmental contexts. The biologist examined the mollusk shell to determine the species Mollusk shells are often found in museum collections
crustacean shell	Used to specifically refer to the hard exoskeletons of crustaceans like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. Typically more scientific or specific terminology. The fisherman found a huge crustacean shell near the reef Studying the crustacean shell can reveal a lot about the animal's life

Examples of usage

The scientist studied the seashells to understand the biodiversity of the marine ecosystem.
Her collection of seashells displayed the variety of species in the ocean.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'seashell' combines 'sea' and 'shell', indicating its association with marine environments.
The term 'shell' comes from the Old English 'scealu' meaning 'a cover' or 'a shield'.

Marine Biology

Seashells are created by mollusks, creatures like snails and clams that use calcium carbonate to form their protective shells.
Some species can produce multiple types of shells depending on their environment, showcasing remarkable adaptability.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, seashells have been used as currency, such as the cowrie shell in Africa and Asia.
Seashells often symbolize beauty, protection, and the ebb and flow of life in literature and art.

Art and Craft

Seashells are commonly used in crafts and decorations, often creating unique art pieces like mosaics or jewelry.
The practice of using seashells in art dates back thousands of years, often appearing in adornments and religious artifacts.

Environmental Indicators

The presence of certain seashells can indicate the health of marine ecosystems, as they are sensitive to pollution and climate change.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting habitats where these creatures thrive, ensuring the survival of both shells and their makers.

Translations

Translations of the word "seashells" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conchas do mar

🇮🇳 समुद्री सीपियाँ

🇩🇪 Muscheln

🇮🇩 kerang laut

🇺🇦 морські мушлі

🇵🇱 muszle morskie

🇯🇵 貝殻

🇫🇷 coquillages

🇪🇸 conchas marinas

🇹🇷 deniz kabukları

🇰🇷 조개껍데기

🇸🇦 أصداف البحر

🇨🇿 mořské mušle

🇸🇰 morské mušle

🇨🇳 海贝壳

🇸🇮 morske školjke

🇮🇸 sjávarkelkur

🇰🇿 теңіз қабықтары

🇬🇪 ზღვის ნიჟარები

🇦🇿 dəniz qabıqları

🇲🇽 conchas marinas