Definition

Describing something that is delicate, thin, and often has a shiny appearance, similar to the outer layer of an egg.

Example

The artist chose an eggshell color for the walls to create a soft and inviting atmosphere.

Conversation

Have you seen that new vase I bought?

Yeah, it's really pretty! I love the eggshell color.

Thanks! I thought it would match my decor perfectly.

It really does, and it adds a nice touch to the room.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The hard and fragile outer layer that covers an egg, typically found in birds and reptiles.

Example

She carefully placed the eggshell in the recycling bin after making the omelet.

Conversation

I found a beautiful vase that looks like an eggshell.

That sounds interesting! Is it fragile?

Yeah, it's really delicate, just like an actual eggshell.

Root Explanation

Eggshell → The word is formed from "egg" (from Old Norse *egg*, meaning the reproductive body of a bird) and "shell" (from Old English *scealu*, meaning a hard outer covering). The term "eggshell" refers to the hard outer covering of an egg.

Memory Tip

Think of the hard outer covering of an 'egg' and 'shell' — together they describe the protective layer of an egg.

Visually Confused Words