scrimshaw

American  

[skrim-shaw] / ˈskrɪmˌʃɔ /

noun

1. a carved or engraved article, especially of whale ivory, whalebone, walrus tusks, or the like, made by whalers as a leisure occupation.

2. such articles or work collectively.

3. the art or technique of carving or engraving whale ivory, whalebone, walrus tusks, etc.

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verb (used without object)

1. to produce scrimshaw.

verb (used with object)

1. to carve or engrave (whale ivory or whalebone) into scrimshaw.

scrimshaw British  

/ ˈskrɪmˌʃɔː /

noun

1. the art of decorating or carving shells, ivory, etc, done by sailors as a leisure activity

2. 1. an article made in this manner

   2. such articles collectively

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verb

1. to produce scrimshaw (from)

Etymology

Origin of scrimshaw

First recorded in 1860–65; of obscure origin

Explanation

If you've ever visited a maritime or nautical museum, you've probably seen examples of scrimshaw, artwork that's made by engraving designs and pictures in a piece of whalebone. Back in the day before sailors had iPods they often passed the time at sea by carving. Scrimshaw is the name for the articles they made, typically of whalebone, shells, or tusks, starting in the mid-1700's. The word's origins are still in the to do column of etymologists; all of the earliest citations are American. Someone who makes scrimshaw is called a scrimshander.

Example Sentences

The Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly chambers, adorned with antlers and a scrimshaw walrus tusk, served as the nerve center for the search with Clement Sr. acting as spokesperson.

From Salon • Nov. 15, 2023

He reimagined these period rooms as the Poly S. Tyrene Maritime Museum, juxtaposing scrimshaw plastics with antique tableware and spindle-leg furniture.

From New York Times • Jun. 16, 2022

Her paintings are worked over and meticulous, condensing the artist’s labor — and that of those who assist her — into something like scrimshaw, needlework or the lattice stone screens of Mughal architecture.

From Washington Post • Jul. 6, 2021

SAT-SUN Demonstrations and activities based on crafts of the 1800s; scrimshaw carving, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 29, 2017

Lavinia slipped out her pistol, a wicked-looking thing with a scrimshaw grip.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee