Meaning & Definition of word "Porcelain"
Porcelain
/ˈpɔːrslɪn/
noun:
- 1. A white vitrified translucent ceramic made by firing a pure clay and then glazing it, often used for making fine dishes and decorative objects.
- Example: The antique store was filled with exquisite porcelain figurines from the 18th century.
- 2. Any object made of porcelain, such as dishes, vases, and tiles.
- Example: She carefully placed the delicate porcelain on the shelf to display her collection.
- 3. A type of porcelain that is specifically known for its high quality and durability.
- Example: The restaurant served food on fine porcelain plates to enhance the dining experience.
Etymology
●From Italian 'porcellana', meaning 'cowrie shell', which refers to the shell's shiny surface.
Common Phrases and Expressions
porcelain doll:
A doll made of porcelain, known for its fragile and delicate features.
porcelain skin:
Skin that is very pale and smooth, often associated with beauty.
porcelain throne:
Colloquial term for a toilet, humorously referencing its ceramic composition.
Related Words
ceramics:
The art or process of making objects from clay and other raw materials by firing them at high temperatures.
china:
Ceramic ware, especially that which is fine and of high quality.
vitrified:
Subjected to a process that makes something glass-like and non-porous, typically applied to certain ceramic materials.
Slang Meanings of porcelain
Meaning: Used to describe something fragile or easily broken.
● Example Sentence: Be gentle with that, it's porcelain!
Meaning: Referencing someone who is very delicate in character or demeanor.
● Example Sentence: She's got a porcelain nature; you have to be careful with your words.