tortoiseshell
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈtɔːtəʊʃɛl/
KK: /ˈtɔrtəˌʃɛl/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is made from or looks like tortoiseshell, often characterized by a mix of brown and yellow colors, or referring to a color pattern in cats that includes black, orange, and cream patches.
Example
The artist used a tortoiseshell pattern for the new furniture design.
Conversation
I just got a new cat, and she's so beautiful.
What color is she?
She's got this lovely tortoiseshell pattern, with shades of orange and black.
That sounds adorable! Tortoiseshell cats are so unique.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mottled
variegated
spotted
Antonyms
uniform
solid
monochrome
noun
Definition
A type of material or pattern that is made from the shell of certain turtles, often used to make jewelry and other items, or a domestic cat with a mix of brown, black, and yellow fur.
Example
The tortoiseshell cat curled up on the windowsill, basking in the sun.
Conversation
I just saw the cutest cat with a tortoiseshell coat at the shelter.
Oh really? Tortoiseshell cats have such unique patterns!
I know, right? I can't decide if I should adopt one or not.
Root Explanation
Tortoiseshell is formed from "tortoise" (from Old French *tortue*, meaning a turtle) and "shell" (from Old English *scealu*, meaning a protective covering). The word refers to the shell of a tortoise, which is often used to describe a type of mottled pattern resembling that shell.
Memory Tip
Think of the protective 'covering' ('shell') of a 'turtle' ('tortoise') — that's why tortoiseshell refers to the shell pattern.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.