Pronunciation: [ˈɛɡʃɛl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "eggshell" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈɛɡ.ʃɛl/. The "e" in the first syllable is pronounced as the short "e" sound, while the "gg" is pronounced with a hard "g", as in "goat". The "sh" is pronounced like the "sh" sound in "shoe", and the "ell" is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by a drooping or descending pitch. Altogether, "eggshell" sounds like "EGG-shell".
Eggshell is a noun that refers to the thin, delicate, and brittle external covering of an egg. It is typically white or pale in color but may have slight variations based on the specific breed of the bird it comes from. Eggshells are composed predominantly of calcium carbonate, a mineral that gives them their characteristic strength and provides protection and support for the developing embryo within.
The term "eggshell" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is extremely fragile, vulnerable, or prone to breaking easily, much like an actual eggshell. It may be used to convey the idea of delicate or sensitive situations, emotions, or relationships. For example, one might say that a person is walking on eggshells when they are trying to avoid causing offense or conflict in a particular situation.
Additionally, "eggshell" can also be used as an adjective to describe a color that closely resembles the outer covering of an egg, usually a pale, off-white shade. This term is commonly used in the context of describing paint colors or interior design choices.
Overall, "eggshell" denotes the thin and brittle covering of an egg, embodies fragility or sensitivity, and can describe a particular shade of white.
The calcareous envelope of a bird's egg; testa ovi.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "eggshell" originated from Old English, derived from the combination of "egg" and "shell". The term "egg" can be traced back to Proto-Germanic "ajja" or "ekwjon", and further to Proto-Indo-European "owjom", meaning "bird's egg". The word "shell" originated from Old English "scealu" derived from Proto-Germanic "skaljo" and ultimately from Proto-Indo-European "skel", meaning "to cover or conceal". Combining these two words, "eggshell" refers to the hard covering or protective outer layer of an egg.
