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shell

Definition

  • noun: the hard outer covering of an animal, insect, etc., that protects it
  • noun: a hard rigid usually largely calcareous covering or support of an animal
  • verb: to take out of a natural enclosing cover (as a shell, husk, pod, or capsule)
  • usually singular
  • synonyms: pod, torpedo, bombard

Examples

  • Making new friends helped her 'come out of her shell'. = Making new friends 'brought her out of her shell'.

  • He lost confidence in himself and 'retreated/withdrew into his shell'.

  • The police found several spent 'shells' at the scene of the shooting.

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