capiz

American  

[kuh-peez, ka-] / kəˈpiz, kæ- /

noun

1. a small marine bivalve of the genus Placuna, especially P. placenta, common in Philippine coastal waters and some other parts of the Pacific Ocean.

2. Also called windowpane shell.  Also called windowglass shell.  the squarish, translucent inner shell of Placuna used in making lamps, windowpane, and decorative objects.

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capiz British  

/ ˈkæpɪz /

noun

1. Also called: jingle shell.   window shell.  the bivalve shell of a mollusc ( Placuna placenta ) found esp in the Philippines and having a smooth translucent shiny interior: used in jewellery, ornaments, lampshades, etc

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Etymology

Origin of capiz

First recorded in 1915–20; from a Philippine language

Example Sentences

A sunflower made from painted banana leaves brightens one wall, a mosaic of mirror and capiz shells another.

From New York Times

Joining the hot restaurant scene and string of stylish home shops are West Elm’s capiz orb pendants and reclaimed wood dining tables.

From Washington Post

Hundreds of capiz shells hang overhead from the ceiling.

From The Wall Street Journal