Shell

Definition

Shell is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the hard protective outer covering of an organism, such as a mollusk or a turtle, or to a hollow projectile used as ammunition. As a verb, it means to remove the outer covering of something or to bombard with shells.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃɛl/
• Respelling: SHEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʃɛl/
• Respelling: SHEL

Etymology

The word "shell" originates from Old English "sciell," meaning "shell or husk," derived from Proto-Germanic "*skaljo," related to the concept of a covering or protective structure. It is also linked to Proto-Indo-European "*skel-" meaning "to cut or split."

Derivatives

• Shellfish (noun)
• Shelling (noun/verb)
• Shell-like (adjective)
• Shell-less (adjective)
• Unshell (verb)

Synonyms

• Coating
• Carapace
• Husk

Antonyms

• Core
• Interior
• None

Usage

The term "shell" is used in biological, military, and culinary contexts. Examples include "The snail has a spiral shell" (noun) and "They shelled the peas before cooking" (verb).

Related Terms

• Husk: The dry outer covering of some seeds or fruits.
• Exoskeleton: An external skeleton supporting or protecting an organism.
• Ammunition: A hollow projectile used in firearms or artillery.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A hard outer covering of an organism: Refers to protective structures in animals or plants.
  • Example: "The turtle retreated into its shell for protection."
• A hollow projectile used as ammunition: Refers to explosive or non-explosive rounds in military contexts.
  • Example: "The artillery fired a shell into the enemy's position."
• The outer case of something: Refers to the hard or durable outer structure of an object.
  • Example: "The computer's shell protects its internal components."

Verb

• To remove the outer covering: Refers to taking off the shell or husk of an item.
  • Example: "She shelled the nuts before baking."
• To bombard with shells: Refers to attacking with explosive projectiles.
  • Example: "The soldiers shelled the enemy's fortifications."