porcelain

Everyday

1. Porcelain is a hard, white, shiny material made by baking fine clay at very high heat; also called china. tree →
2. Porcelain means things made of it, like cups, plates, dolls and vases. tree →
3. Porcelain describes skin that is very pale and smooth. tree →

In the lessons

In history, porcelain was invented in China, which is why it is called «china». In science, it is a ceramic: it does not conduct electricity, so it is used in insulators. In stories, a «porcelain doll» is delicate and easily broken.

Examples

• Gran keeps her porcelain teacups in a glass cabinet. tree →
• Porcelain was first made in China long ago. tree →
• The porcelain vase smashed on the floor. tree →
• The toilet and sink are made of porcelain. tree →
• She had a porcelain doll with painted cheeks. tree →
• Hold it carefully — porcelain breaks easily. tree →
• The walls and floors of porcelain glittered in the light of a thousand lamps. tree →

Note

Uncountable as the material. Pronounced «POR-suh-lin». Porcelain is finer and harder than ordinary pottery (earthenware).