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mother–of–pearl
noun moth·er–of–pearl \ˌmə-thə-rə(v)-ˈpər(-ə)l\
: a hard, shiny, and smooth substance that is on the insides of the shells of some shellfish (such as mussels) and that is used to decorate objects (such as buttons)
Full Definition of MOTHER-OF-PEARL
: the hard pearly iridescent substance forming the inner layer of a mollusk shell
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First Known Use of MOTHER-OF-PEARL
circa 1510
MOTHER-OF-PEARL Defined for Kids
mother–of–pearl
noun moth·er–of–pearl \ˌmə-thər-əv-ˈpərl\
Definition of MOTHER-OF-PEARL for Kids
: a hard pearly material that lines the shell of some mollusks (as mussels) and is often used for ornamental objects and buttons
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