Definitions for tortoiseshell

• Definition
• Anagrams (1055)

tortoiseshell tor·toise·shell

Spelling: [tawr-tuh s-shel]

IPA: /ˈtɔr təsˌʃɛl/

Tortoiseshell is a 13 letter English word. It's valid Words with friends word worth 17 points.

You can make 1055 anagrams from letters in tortoiseshell (eehilloorsstt).

Definitions for tortoiseshell

noun

1. a horny substance of a mottled brown and yellow coloration, composing the laminae that cover the inner body plates of the carapace of certain tortoises or turtles, especially the hawksbill, used for making combs and ornamental articles, inlaying, etc.
2. any synthetic substance made to look like natural tortoiseshell.
3. Also, tortoiseshell butterfly. any of several nymphalid butterflies of the genus Nymphalis, as N. californica, having variegated markings of red, yellow, or orange on the wings.

adjective

1. mottled or variegated like tortoiseshell, especially with yellow and brown and sometimes other colors.
2. made of tortoiseshell.

Origin of tortoiseshell

First recorded in 1595-1605; tortoise + shell

Examples for tortoiseshell

Peacock and tortoiseshell butterflies were flitting to and fro.

But tortoiseshell and white he-cats are occasionally to be seen.

tortoiseshell and whalebone can be softened and worked in the same way.

It is usually supposed that a tortoiseshell Tom is an impossibility.

The same males might be used with advantage with a tortoiseshell female.

And seeing that the Minister was looking over his tortoiseshell.

These boxes are often of gold or tortoiseshell, and beautifully ornamented.

In two hours Nakeesa has filled the tortoiseshell and returns to her man.

This alternation of tortoiseshell and brass forms a brilliant marquetry.

Lady Harriet took up a tortoiseshell paper-knife and played with it.