eggshell

[eg-shel]

noun

1. the shell of a bird's egg, consisting of keratin fibers and calcite crystals.

2. a pale yellowish-white color.

3. rather bulky paper having a slightly rough finish.

adjective

1. like an eggshell, as in thinness and delicacy; very brittle; fragile.

2. being pale yellowish-white in color.

3. having little or no gloss.

   eggshell white paint.

eggshell

/ ˈɛɡˌʃɛl /

noun

1. the hard porous protective outer layer of a bird's egg, consisting of calcite and protein

2. a yellowish-white colour

3. a type of paper with a slightly rough finish

4. (modifier) (of paint) having a very slight sheen

   an eggshell finish

5. to be very cautious or diplomatic for fear of upsetting someone

adjective

1. of a yellowish-white colour

   eggshell paint

Word History and Origins

Origin of eggshell¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, eggshell is from the Middle English word ayschelle. See egg ¹, shell

Example Sentences

And his shoes were exactly the same eggshell color.

Read more on Literature

The eggshell microstructure indicates that these crocodiles likely nested along the edges of a lake and adjusted their reproductive strategies as conditions shifted over time.

Read more on Science Daily

The "drop croc" eggshells were discovered several decades ago but only recently analysed with the help of scientists in Spain.

Read more on BBC

He says medics continue to feel like they are "walking on eggshells" and are often too afraid to raise patient safety concerns.

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Citing an expert, Fang said chickens pecking in soil with high levels of lead and arsenic will accumulate the toxins in their bodies and eggshells.

Read more on Los Angeles Times