oyster
word
/ˈɔɪstɝ/
OY-stur
/ˈɔɪstɐ/
OY-stuh
Definition
An oyster is a type of shellfish with a rough, hard shell usually found in the sea. Oysters are often eaten as food, and some produce pearls.
Usage & Nuances
Usually refers to the edible sea animal. Common in culinary contexts, especially raw or cooked in restaurants. Also used metaphorically in expressions like 'the world is your oyster', meaning 'many opportunities are available'.
Spanish: ostraPortuguese (BR): ostraPortuguese (PT): ostraChinese (Simplified): 牡蛎 - 生蚝Chinese (Traditional): 牡蠣 - 生蠔Hindi: सीपArabic: محارBengali: ঝিনুকRussian: устрицаJapanese: 牡蠣Vietnamese: hàuKorean: 굴Turkish: istiridyeUrdu: صدف (اویسٹر)Indonesian: tiram
Example Sentences
An oyster lives in salt water.
basic
I've never tried raw oyster before—what does it taste like?
natural
They served grilled oysters at the party last night.
natural
'The world is your oyster,' my teacher told me when I graduated.
natural
Oysters can make pearls inside their shells.
basic
He ate a fresh oyster at the restaurant.
basic