pearl
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pɜːrl/
KK: /pɜrl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or resembling a pearl, often used to describe something that has a smooth, shiny appearance like that of a pearl.
Example
The dress had a beautiful pearl finish that shimmered in the light.
Conversation
I just got a new dress that has a lovely pearl finish.
That sounds beautiful! I love dresses with that kind of shine.
Yeah, it really makes the color pop in the sunlight.
You should wear it next time we go out; I can't wait to see it!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
luminous
iridescent
shiny
Antonyms
dull
matte
drab
intransitive verb
Definition
To dive or fish for small, round, shiny objects that are often used in jewelry, or to create small, round shapes that look like these objects.
Example
She loves to pearl in the ocean during her summer vacations.
Tense Forms
Past: pearled
Past Participle: pearled
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how they pearl for real pearls?
Yeah, I read it's quite a process, diving deep into the ocean.
It must be exciting to pearl and find something beautiful like that.
noun
Definition
A smooth, shiny gem that is formed inside the shells of some sea creatures, often used in jewelry and valued for its beauty.
Example
She wore a beautiful necklace made of pearls.
Conversation
I found a beautiful pearl necklace at the market yesterday.
That sounds amazing! Was it expensive?
Not really, it was surprisingly affordable for a pearl piece.
transitive verb
Definition
To decorate something with small, round, shiny objects that look like pearls, or to give something the appearance of pearls.
Example
She decided to pearl the necklace with beautiful white beads.
Tense Forms
Past: pearled
Past Participle: pearled
Conversation
I saw this amazing necklace at the store today.
Oh really? What did it look like?
It was pearl adorned and just so elegant!
Root Explanation
The word 'pearl' originates from Old French 'perle', which in turn comes from Latin 'perla', meaning a precious gem formed within a mollusk. The term refers specifically to the lustrous, round object that is highly valued in jewelry and decoration.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word 'perle' that directly refers to this precious gem, helping you remember that 'pearl' is a beautiful, valuable gem formed inside a mollusk.
Visually Confused Words
peal
earl
impearl
bepearl
spear
speal
pheal
petal