Definition

A type of clay that is used for making pottery and other ceramic items, often characterized by its fine texture and ability to be molded easily.

Example

The artist used pipeclay to create delicate sculptures.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pipeclay?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of clay used for pottery, right?

Exactly! I read that it's also known as catlinite.

That's interesting! I’d love to see some pottery made from it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something white by using a type of clay that is light in color.

Example

The artist decided to pipeclay the sculpture to give it a brighter appearance.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you can pipeclay your shoes to make them look brand new.

Yeah, it really works wonders for whitening them.

I might try that on my old sneakers, they could use some help.

Root Explanation

Pipeclay → The word is formed from "pipe" (from Old English *pipian*, meaning to make a sound like a pipe) and "clay" (from Old English *claeg*, meaning a sticky earthy substance). The term "pipeclay" refers to a type of clay that is used to make pipes, linking the sound-making aspect of pipes with the material used to create them.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'pipe' as something that makes a sound and 'clay' as the earthy material. This helps you remember that 'pipeclay' is the clay used to make pipes.

Visually Confused Words