Collins English-English Dictionary

pearl [p3ːl]

1. 1. n a hard smooth lustrous typically rounded structure occurring on the inner surface of the shell of a clam or oyster: consists of calcium carbonate secreted in layers around an invading particle such as a sand grain; much valued as a gem

2. 2. n any artificial gem resembling this

3. 3. n See mother-of-pearl

4. 4. n a person or thing that is like a pearl, esp in beauty or value

5. 5. n a pale greyish-white colour, often with a bluish tinge

6. 6. n a size of printer's type, approximately equal to 5 point

7. 7. adj of, made of, or set with pearl or mother-of-pearl

8. 8. adj having the shape or colour of a pearl

9. 9. vt. [tr] to set with or as if with pearls

10. 10. vt. to shape into or assume a pearl-like form or colour

11. 11. vi. [intr] to dive or search for pearls

12. 12. vi. [Etymology] C14: from Old French, from Vulgar Latin pernula (unattested), from Latin perna sea mussel

pearl [p3ːl]

1. 1. vb a variant spelling of purl