scrimshaw

[ skrim-shaw ]

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.

verb (used without object)

1. to produce scrimshaw.

verb (used with object)

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

scrimshaw

/ 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

verb

1. to produce scrimshaw (from)

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrimshaw¹

First recorded in 1860–65; of obscure origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrimshaw¹

C19: origin uncertain, perhaps after a surname

Example Sentences

Dr. Scrimshaw died of congestive heart failure on Friday at the age of 95.

From The Daily Beast

The laying of bituminous pavements in this country began in 1869, and they were first made of tar concrete, or Scrimshaw.

From Project Gutenberg

But our carpenter was a famous workman at "scrimshaw," and he started half a dozen walking-sticks forthwith.

From Project Gutenberg

The great jaw-pans were sawn off, and placed at the disposal of anybody who wanted pieces of bone for "scrimshaw," or carved work.

From Project Gutenberg