eggshell

American  

[eg-shel] / ˈɛgˌʃɛl /

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.

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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 British  

/ 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

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adjective

1. of a yellowish-white colour

   eggshell paint

Etymology

Origin of eggshell

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

Example Sentences

A report from 2007 said it was feasible for influenza viruses to enter through the eggshell.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2024

The eggshell walls painted over and over and over again.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2024

Now, McGill University researchers have new information from the eggshell membrane in chicken eggs that could help change this picture thanks to the potential it offers for improvements in tissue engineering and biomaterial grafts.

From Science Daily • Feb. 14, 2024

"It wasn't like it is today where everybody's got to walk on an eggshell to tell you something," the 63-year-old told the Radio Times podcast.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2023

“I’m No-One-in-Particular,” the woman said with a small giggle, the crack in the eggshell giving the impression of sharp teeth.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley