Tortoiseshell: meaning, definitions and examples
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tortoiseshell
[ ˈtɔːtəsʃɛl ]
material pattern
Tortoiseshell refers to a material made from the shells of certain species of tortoises, primarily the hawksbill turtle. It is characterized by a mottled pattern resembling the shell of a tortoise, commonly used in the production of items such as jewelry, spectacles, and decorative objects.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The antique glasses were made of tortoiseshell.
- She wore a beautiful tortoiseshell bracelet.
- The comb was crafted from genuine tortoiseshell.
cat breed
In the context of cats, tortoiseshell refers to a coat color pattern that combines patches of orange and black fur. Tortoiseshell cats are often associated with a unique personality, being described as independent and strong-willed.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Her tortoiseshell cat has a very playful personality.
- Tortoiseshell cats can have striking color combinations.
- Many people believe tortoiseshell cats bring good luck.
Translations
Translations of the word "tortoiseshell" in other languages:
🇵🇹 casco de tartaruga
🇮🇳 कछुए की ढ़ाल
🇩🇪 Schildkrötenpanzer
🇮🇩 cangkang kura-kura
🇺🇦 черепашачий панцир
🇵🇱 muszla żółwia
🇯🇵 亀の甲
🇫🇷 carapace de tortue
🇪🇸 caparazón de tortuga
🇹🇷 kaplumbağa kabuğu
🇰🇷 거북껍질
🇸🇦 صدف السلحفاة
🇨🇿 tortoiseshell
🇸🇰 želvovina
🇨🇳 龟壳
🇸🇮 oklep želv
🇮🇸 skjaldkókur
🇰🇿 тасбақа қабығы
🇬🇪 კუ ადგილის
🇦🇿 tısbağa qabığı
🇲🇽 caparazón de tortuga
Etymology
The term 'tortoiseshell' has its origins in the 16th century, deriving from the combination of 'tortoise' and 'shell', referring to the actual shells of tortoises used for decorative purposes. The popularity of tortoiseshell as a material surged during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Europe, where it was used to make a variety of luxury items. Due to the decline in tortoise populations and the subsequent protection of these animals, the use of authentic tortoiseshell has been heavily regulated. Consequently, artisans have developed synthetic alternatives that mimic the appearance of tortoiseshell without harming wildlife. The phrase has also been adopted in the feline world to describe specific coat patterns in cats, showcasing the blend of colors reminiscent of the original material.