eggshell etymology

Etymology

The word "eggshell" is derived from two Old English words:

  • æg (pronounced "egg"), meaning "egg"
  • sceall (pronounced "shall"), meaning "shell"

Meaning

An eggshell is the hard, protective outer covering of an egg that encloses the yolk and albumen. It provides support and protection for the developing embryo within.

Origin

The term "eggshell" has been used in the English language since at least the 12th century. It is a compound word that directly translates to "egg shell." The word has remained largely unchanged in spelling and meaning throughout its history.

Additional Information

  • Synonyms: eggshell, egg case, egg membrane
  • Composition: Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which gives them their hardness and strength.
  • Color: Eggshells can vary in color from white to brown, depending on the species of bird that laid them.
  • Uses: Eggshells have various uses, including:
    • Fertilizer: They are rich in calcium and can be used as a soil amendment.
    • Art and crafts: Eggshells can be used to create mosaics, jewelry, and other decorative items.
    • Food: Eggshells can be crushed and added to baked goods for extra calcium.

eggshell relate terms

  • shell

    Etymology The word shell comes from the Old Norse word skjel meaning husk or cov

  • cover

    Etymology Origin of the Word Middle English coveren cover from the Old French covr

  • deacon

    Etymology Middle English dekene Old French diacre Latin diaconus Greek διάκον

  • abstract

    Etymology Origin Latin abstractus past participle of abstrahere meaning to draw away

  • facetious

    Etymology Latin facetus humorous witty merry French facétieux facetious

  • cell

    Etymology The word cell derives from the Latin word cella meaning small room or c

  • newel

    Etymology Of uncertain origin It was originally spelled newell and the el has bee

  • substance

    Etymology The word substance is derived from the Latin word substantia which means

  • control

    Etymology Latin controllus meaning check restraint French contrôle English

  • Turk

    Etymology Turk The word Turk originates from the Old Turkic word Türk or Türkü