Meaning & Definition of word "Oyster"
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Oyster
/ˈɔɪ.stər/
noun:
- 1. A marine mollusk with a rough, irregular shell that can be harvested for its edible flesh and sometimes produces pearls.
- Example: We enjoyed freshly shucked oysters at the seafood restaurant.
- 2. Any of various bivalve mollusks of the family Ostreidae, with leathery inner surfaces, often found attached to rock or other surfaces.
- Example: The diver discovered a bed of oysters thriving on the rocky seabed.
- 3. A term used to describe something that is considered a delicacy, especially in culinary contexts.
- Example: Some people consider oysters an aphrodisiac.
verb:
- 1. To gather or harvest oysters.
- Example: He spent the afternoon oystering along the coast.
Etymology
Middle English 'oistre', from Old French 'oistre', from Latin 'ostrea', from Greek 'ostreon'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
the world is your oyster:
You are free to do anything you want and go anywhere you want in life.
Related Words
pearl:
A hard, round object produced within the soft tissue of a living mollusk.
shellfish:
Aquatic animals with a shell, including crustaceans and mollusks.
bivalve:
A type of mollusk that has two shells hinged together.
Slang Meanings of oyster
Meaning: To be reserved or shy in social situations.
Example Sentence: Stop being such an oyster and join the party!