a smooth, rounded bead formed within the shells of certain mollusks and composed of the mineral aragonite or calcite in a matrix, deposited in concentric layers as a protective coating around an irritating foreign object

valued as a gem when lustrous and finely colored. Compare cultured pearl

something resembling this, as various synthetic substances for use in costume jewelry.

something similar in form, luster, etc., as a dewdrop or a capsule of medicine.

something precious or choice; the finest example of anything

pearls of wisdom.

a very pale gray approaching white but commonly with a bluish tinge.

mother-of-pearl

a pearl-handled revolver.

Printing . a 5-point type.

Also called epithelial pearl. Pathology . a rounded mass of keratin occurring in certain carcinomas of the skin.

to adorn or stud with or as with pearls.

to make like pearls, as in form or color.

to dive, fish, or search for pearls.

to assume a pearllike form or appearance.

resembling a pearl in form or color.

of or pertaining to pearls

pearl diving.

set with a pearl or pearls or covered or inlaid with pearls or mother-of-pearl

a pearl necklace.

having or reduced to small, rounded grains. ?

cast pearls before swine

to offer or give something of great value to those incapable of appreciating it

She read them Shakespeare but it was casting pearls before swine.

noun

gem , prize , baroque pearl , jewel , lustrous , margaric , margarite , nacre , nacre(mother-of-pearl) , orient , paragon , seed