eggshell

[ eg-shel ]

noun

1. the shell of a bird's egg, consisting of keratin fibers and calcite crystals.
2. a pale yellowish-white color.
3. rather bulky paper having a slightly rough finish.

adjective

1. like an eggshell, as in thinness and delicacy; very brittle; fragile.
2. being pale yellowish-white in color.
3. having little or no gloss:

   eggshell white paint.

eggshell

/ ˈɛɡˌʃɛl /

noun

1. the hard porous protective outer layer of a bird's egg, consisting of calcite and protein
2. a yellowish-white colour
3. a type of paper with a slightly rough finish
4. modifier (of paint) having a very slight sheen

   an eggshell finish

5. walk on eggshells
   to be very cautious or diplomatic for fear of upsetting someone

adjective

1. of a yellowish-white colour

   eggshell paint

Word History and Origins

Origin of eggshell¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, eggshell is from the Middle English word ayschelle. See egg ¹, shell

Example Sentences

"You have to be on your best behaviour at school at all times and I feel chaotic without the meds, it’s like walking on eggshells and takes up all my energy."

From BBC

A dense network of fine blood vessels covers the inside of the eggshell.

From Science Daily

The researchers placed eggshells in solutions containing REEs at various temperatures from a pleasant 25 °C to a scorching 205 °C, and for different time periods of up to three months.

From Science Daily

A report from 2007 said it was feasible for influenza viruses to enter through the eggshell.

From Salon

Fossil cactus seeds and bird eggshell suggest that this camp was occupied specifically during the dry season.

From Science Daily