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| Meta Title | SHELL definition in American English | Collins English Dictionary |
| Meta Description | 21 senses: 1. the protective calcareous or membranous outer layer of an egg, esp a bird's egg 2. the hard outer covering of.... Click for more definitions. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | COBUILD frequency band
shell
(
ʃ
ɛ
l
)
Word forms:
plural
,
3rd person singular present tense
shells
,
present participle
shelling
,
past tense
,
past participle
shelled
1.
countable noun
The
shell
of a nut or egg is the hard covering which surrounds it.
They cracked the nuts and removed their shells.
Shell
is the substance that a shell is made of.
...beads made from ostrich egg shell.
2.
countable noun
The
shell
of an animal such as a tortoise, snail, or crab is the hard protective covering that it has around its body or on its back.
...the spiral form of a snail shell.
3.
countable noun
Shells
are hard objects found on beaches. They are usually pink, white, or brown and are the coverings which used to surround small sea creatures.
I collect shells and interesting seaside items.
4.
transitive verb
If you
shell
nuts, peas,
shrimp
, or other food, you remove their natural outer covering.
She shelled and ate a few nuts.
5.
countable noun
If someone comes out of their
shell
, they become more friendly and interested in other people and less quiet, shy, and reserved.
Her normally shy son had come out of his shell.
6.
countable noun
The
shell
of a building, boat, car, or other structure is the outside frame of it.
...the shells of burned buildings.
7.
countable noun
A
shell
is a weapon consisting of a metal container filled with explosives that can be fired from a large gun over long distances.
Tanks fired shells at the house.
8.
transitive verb
To
shell
a place means to fire explosive shells at it.
The rebels shelled the densely-populated suburbs near the port.
shelling
Word forms:
plural
shellings
variable noun
Out on the streets, the shelling continued.
Phrasal verbs:
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary
. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
she'll
(
ʃil
,
ʃɪl
)
She'll
is the usual spoken form of `she will.'
Sharon was a wonderful lady and I know she'll be greatly missed.
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary
. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
American English pronunciation
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COBUILD frequency band
shell
in American English
(
ʃɛl
)
noun
Origin:
ME
schelle
< OE
sciel
, akin to MDu
schelle
< IE base *
(s)kel-
: see
shelf
1.
a hard outer covering, as of a
turtle
, mollusk, insect, egg, fruit, seed, etc.
2.
something like or
suggestive
of a shell in being hollow,
empty
, or
simply
a covering or framework, as the
hull
of a boat, a hollow pastry or unfilled pie
crust
, the framework of a building, a structure with an
arched
or hemispherical roof or back, a
tapered
beer
glass, etc.
3.
to come out of one's
shell
4.
US
5.
US
a long, narrow, thin-hulled racing boat rowed usually by a team of
oarsmen
6.
an explosive artillery projectile containing high explosives and sometimes
shrapnel
, chemicals, etc.
7.
US
a cartridge for small arms or small artillery, consisting of a metal, paper, or plastic case holding the primer, powder charge, and shot or bullet
8.
a pyrotechnic cartridge which explodes high in the air
9.
a.
a mollusk
b.
(
pl.
)
10.
chemistry
and physics
a.
any of the
spherical
or
elliptical
orbits of electrons around the nucleus of an atom, each with the same principal quantum number and about the same energy
b.
the space taken up by such an orbit
c.
verb transitive
11.
to remove the shell or covering from; take out of the shell
to
shell
peas, oysters, etc.
13.
to fire shells at from a large gun or guns; bombard
verb intransitive
14.
to separate from the shell or covering
peanuts
shell
easily
15.
16.
US
to
gather
or collect shells
Idioms:
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
Derived forms
shell-like
(
ˈshell-ˌlike
)
adjective
shelly
(
ˈshelly
)
adjective
COBUILD frequency band
she'll
in American English
(
ʃil
,
ʃɪl
)
contraction
1.
she will
2.
she shall
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
COBUILD frequency band
shell
in American English
(
ʃel
)
noun
1.
a hard outer covering of an animal, as the hard case of a mollusk, or either half of the case of a
bivalve
mollusk
2.
any of various objects resembling such a covering, as in shape or in being more or less
concave
or hollow
3.
the material constituting any of various coverings of this kind
4.
5.
the usually hard, outer covering of a seed, fruit, or the like, as the hard outside
portion
of a nut, the pod of peas, etc.
6.
a hard, protecting or enclosing case or cover
7.
an attitude or manner of reserve that usually
conceals
one's emotions, thoughts, etc.
One could not penetrate his shell
8.
a hollow projectile for a
cannon
,
mortar
, etc., filled with an explosive charge designed to explode during flight, upon impact, or after penetration
9.
a
metallic
cartridge used in small arms and small artillery pieces
10.
a metal or paper cartridge, as for use in a
shotgun
11.
a cartridgelike pyrotechnic device that explodes in the air
13.
the lower pastry crust of a pie,
tart
, or the like,
baked
before the
filling
is added
14.
Computing
a program providing a menu-driven or graphical user
interface
designed to
simplify
use of the operating system, as in
loading
application programs
15.
Physics
a.
any of up to seven energy levels on which an electron may exist within an atom, the energies of the electrons on the same level being equal and on different levels being
unequal
b.
a group of nucleons of approximately the same energy
16.
a light, long, narrow racing boat, for rowing by one or more persons
17.
the outer part of a finished garment that has a
lining
, esp. a detachable lining
18.
a woman's sleeveless blouse or sweater, esp. one meant for wear under a suit
jacket
19.
Nautical
the
plating
,
planking
, or the like, covering the
ribs
and forming the exterior hull of a vessel
21.
a mollusk
22.
Engineering
the curved solid forming a
dome
or
vault
24.
a saucer-shaped arena or stadium
25.
the framework, external structure, or walls and roof of a building
After the fire, only the shell of the school was left
26.
a small glass for beer
27.
the metal, pressure-resistant outer casing of a fire-tube
boiler
28.
Metallurgy
a.
b.
a length of unfinished tubing
c.
d.
a hollow object made by deep drawing
transitive verb
29.
to take out of the shell, pod, etc.; remove the shell of
30.
to separate (Indian corn, grain, etc.) from the ear, cob, or husk
31.
to fire shells or explosive projectiles into, upon, or among; bombard
intransitive verb
32.
to fall or come out of the shell, husk, etc
33.
to come away or fall off, as a shell or outer coat
34.
to gather sea shells
We spent the whole morning shelling while the tide was out
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
Derived forms
shell-less
adjective
shell-like
adjective
Word origin
[
bef. 900; (n.) ME; OE
scell
(north),
sciell
; c. D
schil
peel, skin, rink, ON
skel
shell, Goth
skalja
tile; (v.) deriv. of the n.; cf.
shale
]
COBUILD frequency band
she'll
in American English
(
ʃil
,
unstressed
ʃɪl
)
contraction of
she will
USAGE
See
contraction
.
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
COBUILD frequency band
shell
in British English
(
ʃɛl
)
noun
1.
2.
3.
4.
the hard outer layer of some fruits, esp of
nuts
5.
any hard outer case
7.
8.
a pyrotechnic cartridge designed to explode in the air
9.
rowing
a very light narrow racing boat
10.
the external structure of a building, esp one that is
unfinished
or one that has been
gutted
by fire
11.
the basic
structural
case of something, such as a machine, vehicle, etc
12.
physics
13.
14.
15.
British
(in some schools) a class or form
verb
18.
19.
to separate or be separated from an ear, husk,
cob
, etc
20.
(
transitive
)
to
bombard
with artillery shells
Collins English Dictionary
. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Derived forms
shell-less
(
ˈshell-less
)
adjective
shelly
(
ˈshelly
)
adjective
Word origin
Old English
sciell;
related to Old Norse
skel
shell, Gothic
skalja
tile, Middle Low German
schelle
shell; see
scale
1
,
shale
COBUILD frequency band
she'll
in British English
(
ʃiːl
,
unstressed
ʃɪl
)
contraction of
she will
or
she
shall
Collins English Dictionary
. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
shell
in Mechanical Engineering
(
ʃ
ɛ
l
)
Word forms:
(regular plural)
shells
noun
(
Mechanical engineering
:
General
)
The
shell
of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
The car's
shell
(minus the doors, trunk lid, hood, and fenders) is lowered onto the chassis so the bodywork can be assembled.
Editing techniques let designers create
shells
of products such as fuselages.
The
shell
of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
Collins COBUILD Key Words for Mechanical Engineering
. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Examples of 'shell' in a sentence
shell
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Collins, or its parent company HarperCollins.
One of the
engineers
was
injured
when a hot shell case landed on his neck.
The hard shell serves as the
backing
and bottom and is filled with
padding
.
You
probably
have a slightly harder outer shell due to what you have experienced.
One of the
tanks
on the range fired a shell.
They use the acids in orange
juice
and
vinegar
to
dissolve
the shells of
raw
eggs.
Use the empty shells as serving dishes and fill with the white meat mixture.
The hard
crimson
shell
retains
the
moisture
for long periods.
We are
obsessed
with
shallow
outer shells.
The creature bore only a
partial
shell on its back and displayed broadened ribs.
He was
fixing
his car when the shell landed in front of the simple home where he and his family lived as fruit
farmers
.
More idioms containing
shell
Related word partners
shell |
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# Definition of 'shell'
COBUILD frequency band
## shell
(ʃɛl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
**Word forms:** plural, 3rd person singular present tense shells , present participle shelling , past tense, past participle shelled
1\. countable noun
The shell of a nut or egg is the hard covering which surrounds it.
They cracked the nuts and removed their shells.
**Synonyms:** [husk](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/husk "Definition of husk"), [case](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/case "Definition of case"), [pod](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pod "Definition of pod"), shuck [More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
Shell is the substance that a shell is made of.
...beads made from ostrich egg shell.
2\. countable noun
The shell of an animal such as a tortoise, snail, or crab is the hard protective covering that it has around its body or on its back.
...the spiral form of a snail shell.
3\. countable noun
Shells are hard objects found on beaches. They are usually pink, white, or brown and are the coverings which used to surround small sea creatures.
I collect shells and interesting seaside items.
4\. transitive verb
If you shell nuts, peas, [shrimp](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shrimp "Definition of shrimp"), or other food, you remove their natural outer covering.
She shelled and ate a few nuts.
**Synonyms:** remove the shells from, [pod](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pod "Definition of pod"), [husk](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/husk "Definition of husk"), shuck \[US\] [More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
5\. countable noun
If someone comes out of their shell, they become more friendly and interested in other people and less quiet, shy, and reserved.
Her normally shy son had come out of his shell.
**Synonyms:** shyness, [modesty](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/modesty "Definition of modesty"), lack of confidence, self-consciousness [More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
6\. countable noun
The shell of a building, boat, car, or other structure is the outside frame of it.
...the shells of burned buildings.
**Synonyms:** [frame](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/frame "Definition of frame"), [structure](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/structure "Definition of structure"), [hull](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/hull "Definition of hull"), [framework](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/framework "Definition of framework") [More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
7\. countable noun
A shell is a weapon consisting of a metal container filled with explosives that can be fired from a large gun over long distances.
Tanks fired shells at the house.
8\. transitive verb
To shell a place means to fire explosive shells at it.
The rebels shelled the densely-populated suburbs near the port.
**Synonyms:** [bomb](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bomb "Definition of bomb"), [barrage](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/barrage "Definition of barrage"), [bombard](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bombard "Definition of bombard"), [attack](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/attack "Definition of attack") [More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
shelling **Word forms:** plural shellings variable noun
Out on the streets, the shelling continued.
**Phrasal verbs:**
See [shell out](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-out "Definition of shell out")
[More Synonyms of **shell**](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english-thesaurus/shell#shell__1 "Synonyms of shell")
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll
(ʃil [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") , ʃɪl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
She'll is the usual spoken form of \`she will.'
Sharon was a wonderful lady and I know she'll be greatly missed.
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
American English pronunciation
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COBUILD frequency band
## shell in American English
(ʃɛl )
nounOrigin: ME schelle \< OE sciel, akin to MDu schelle \< IE base \*(s)kel-: see [shelf](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shelf "Definition of shelf")
1\.
a hard outer covering, as of a [turtle](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/turtle "Definition of turtle"), mollusk, insect, egg, fruit, seed, etc.
2\.
something like or [suggestive](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/suggestive "Definition of suggestive") of a shell in being hollow, [empty](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/empty "Definition of empty"), or [simply](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/simply "Definition of simply") a covering or framework, as the [hull](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/hull "Definition of hull") of a boat, a hollow pastry or unfilled pie [crust](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/crust "Definition of crust"), the framework of a building, a structure with an [arched](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/arch "Definition of arched") or hemispherical roof or back, a [tapered](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/taper "Definition of tapered") [beer](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/beer "Definition of beer") glass, etc.
3\.
a shy, reserved, or [uncommunicative](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/uncommunicative "Definition of uncommunicative") attitude or manner
to come out of one's shell
4\. US
a woman's simple sleeveless [blouse](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/blouse "Definition of blouse") or [sweater](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/sweater "Definition of sweater")
5\. US
a long, narrow, thin-hulled racing boat rowed usually by a team of [oarsmen](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/oarsman "Definition of oarsmen")
6\.
an explosive artillery projectile containing high explosives and sometimes [shrapnel](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shrapnel "Definition of shrapnel"), chemicals, etc.
7\. US
a cartridge for small arms or small artillery, consisting of a metal, paper, or plastic case holding the primer, powder charge, and shot or bullet
8\.
a pyrotechnic cartridge which explodes high in the air
9\.
a.
a mollusk
b. (pl.)
[shellfish](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shellfish "Definition of shellfish")
10\. chemistry and physics
a.
any of the [spherical](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/spherical "Definition of spherical") or [elliptical](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/elliptical "Definition of elliptical") orbits of electrons around the nucleus of an atom, each with the same principal quantum number and about the same energy
b.
the space taken up by such an orbit
c.
a [grouping](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/grouping "Definition of grouping") of like nucleons of [approximately](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/approximately "Definition of approximately") the same energy in the nucleus
verb transitive
11\.
to remove the shell or covering from; take out of the shell
to shell peas, oysters, etc.
12\.
to separate [kernels](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/kernel "Definition of kernels") or grains of ([corn](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/corn "Definition of corn"), [wheat](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/wheat "Definition of wheat"), etc.) from the cob or ear
13\.
to fire shells at from a large gun or guns; bombard
verb intransitive
14\.
to separate from the shell or covering
peanuts shell easily
15\.
to fall, [slough](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/slough "Definition of slough"), or [peel](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/peel "Definition of peel") off
16\. US
to [gather](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/gather "Definition of gather") or collect shells
**Idioms:**
[shell out](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-out "Definition of shell out")
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
Derived forms
shell-like (ˈshell-ˌlike)
adjective
shelly (ˈshelly)
adjective
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in American English
(ʃil , ʃɪl )
contraction
1\.
she will
2\.
she shall
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in American English
(ʃel)
noun
1\.
a hard outer covering of an animal, as the hard case of a mollusk, or either half of the case of a [bivalve](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bivalve "Definition of bivalve") mollusk
2\.
any of various objects resembling such a covering, as in shape or in being more or less [concave](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/concave "Definition of concave") or hollow
3\.
the material constituting any of various coverings of this kind
4\.
the hard [exterior](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/exterior "Definition of exterior") of an egg
5\.
the usually hard, outer covering of a seed, fruit, or the like, as the hard outside [portion](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/portion "Definition of portion") of a nut, the pod of peas, etc.
6\.
a hard, protecting or enclosing case or cover
7\.
an attitude or manner of reserve that usually [conceals](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/conceal "Definition of conceals") one's emotions, thoughts, etc.
One could not penetrate his shell
8\.
a hollow projectile for a [cannon](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/cannon "Definition of cannon"), [mortar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/mortar "Definition of mortar"), etc., filled with an explosive charge designed to explode during flight, upon impact, or after penetration
9\.
a [metallic](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/metallic "Definition of metallic") cartridge used in small arms and small artillery pieces
10\.
a metal or paper cartridge, as for use in a [shotgun](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shotgun "Definition of shotgun")
11\.
a cartridgelike pyrotechnic device that explodes in the air
12\. See [shells](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shells "Definition of shells")
13\.
the lower pastry crust of a pie, [tart](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/tart "Definition of tart"), or the like, [baked](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bake "Definition of baked") before the [filling](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/filling "Definition of filling") is added
14\. Computing
a program providing a menu-driven or graphical user [interface](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/interface "Definition of interface") designed to [simplify](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/simplify "Definition of simplify") use of the operating system, as in [loading](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/loading "Definition of loading") application programs
15\. Physics
a.
any of up to seven energy levels on which an electron may exist within an atom, the energies of the electrons on the same level being equal and on different levels being [unequal](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/unequal "Definition of unequal")
b.
a group of nucleons of approximately the same energy
16\.
a light, long, narrow racing boat, for rowing by one or more persons
17\.
the outer part of a finished garment that has a [lining](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/lining "Definition of lining"), esp. a detachable lining
18\.
a woman's sleeveless blouse or sweater, esp. one meant for wear under a suit [jacket](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/jacket "Definition of jacket")
19\. Nautical
the [plating](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/plating "Definition of plating"), [planking](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/plank "Definition of planking"), or the like, covering the [ribs](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/rib "Definition of ribs") and forming the exterior hull of a vessel
20\. See [tortoiseshell (sense 1)](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/tortoiseshell "Definition of tortoiseshell (sense 1)")
21\.
a mollusk
22\. Engineering
the curved solid forming a [dome](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/dome "Definition of dome") or [vault](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/vault "Definition of vault")
23\.
an [arena](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/arena "Definition of arena") or [stadium](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/stadium "Definition of stadium") covered by a domed or arched roof
24\.
a saucer-shaped arena or stadium
25\.
the framework, external structure, or walls and roof of a building
After the fire, only the shell of the school was left
26\.
a small glass for beer
27\.
the metal, pressure-resistant outer casing of a fire-tube [boiler](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/boiler "Definition of boiler")
28\. Metallurgy
a.
a [scab](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/scab "Definition of scab") on the surface of an [ingot](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/ingot "Definition of ingot")
b.
a length of unfinished tubing
c.
a [pierced](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pierce "Definition of pierced") [forging](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/forging "Definition of forging")
d.
a hollow object made by deep drawing
transitive verb
29\.
to take out of the shell, pod, etc.; remove the shell of
30\.
to separate (Indian corn, grain, etc.) from the ear, cob, or husk
31\.
to fire shells or explosive projectiles into, upon, or among; bombard
intransitive verb
32\.
to fall or come out of the shell, husk, etc
33\.
to come away or fall off, as a shell or outer coat
34\.
to gather sea shells
We spent the whole morning shelling while the tide was out
35\. See [shell out](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-out "Definition of shell out")
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
Derived forms
shell-less
adjective
shell-like
adjective
Word origin
\[bef. 900; (n.) ME; OE scell (north), sciell; c. D schil peel, skin, rink, ON skel shell, Goth skalja tile; (v.) deriv. of the n.; cf. shale\]
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in American English
(ʃil, unstressed ʃɪl)
contraction of
she will
USAGE See [contraction](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/contraction "Definition of contraction").
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in British English
(ʃɛl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
noun
1\.
the [protective](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/protective "Definition of protective") [calcareous](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/calcareous "Definition of calcareous") or [membranous](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/membranous "Definition of membranous") outer layer of an egg, esp a bird's egg
2\.
the hard outer covering of many [molluscs](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/mollusc "Definition of molluscs") that is [secreted](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/secrete "Definition of secreted") by the [mantle](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/mantle "Definition of mantle")
3\.
any other hard outer layer, such as the [exoskeleton](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/exoskeleton "Definition of exoskeleton") of many [arthropods](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/arthropod "Definition of arthropods")
4\.
the hard outer layer of some fruits, esp of [nuts](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/nut "Definition of nuts")
5\.
any hard outer case
6\.
a hollow [artillery](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/artillery "Definition of artillery") [projectile](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/projectile "Definition of projectile") filled with [explosive](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/explosive "Definition of explosive") primed to [explode](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/explode "Definition of explode") either during flight, on [impact](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/impact "Definition of impact"), or after [penetration](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/penetration "Definition of penetration")
Compare [ball1 (sense 7a)](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/ball "Definition of ball1 (sense 7a)")
7\.
a small-arms [cartridge](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/cartridge "Definition of cartridge") comprising a hollow [casing](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/casing "Definition of casing") inside which is the [primer](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/primer "Definition of primer"), charge, and [bullet](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bullet "Definition of bullet")
8\.
a pyrotechnic cartridge designed to explode in the air
9\. rowing
a very light narrow racing boat
10\.
the external structure of a building, esp one that is [unfinished](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/unfinished "Definition of unfinished") or one that has been [gutted](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/gut "Definition of gutted") by fire
11\.
the basic [structural](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/structural "Definition of structural") case of something, such as a machine, vehicle, etc
12\. physics
a.
a class of electron [orbits](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/orbit "Definition of orbits") in an atom in which the electrons have the same [principal](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/principal "Definition of principal") [quantum](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/quantum "Definition of quantum") number and [orbital](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/orbital "Definition of orbital") [angular](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/angular "Definition of angular") [momentum](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/momentum "Definition of momentum") quantum number and differences in their energy are small [compared](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/compare "Definition of compared") with differences in energy between shells
b.
an [analogous](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/analogous "Definition of analogous") energy state of [nucleons](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/nucleon "Definition of nucleons") in certain theories (shell [models](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/model "Definition of models")) of the structure of the atomic nucleus
13\.
the [pastry](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pastry "Definition of pastry") case of a [pie](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pie "Definition of pie"), [flan](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/flan "Definition of flan"), etc
14\.
a thin [slab](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/slab "Definition of slab") of [concrete](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/concrete "Definition of concrete") or a skeletal [framework](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/framework "Definition of framework") made of wood or metal that forms a [shell-like](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-like "Definition of shell-like") roof
15\. British
(in some schools) a class or form
16\. See [come out of one's shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/come-out-of-ones-shell "Definition of come out of one's shell")
17\. See [bring out of one's shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bring-out-of-ones-shell "Definition of bring out of one's shell")
verb
18\.
to [divest](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/divest "Definition of divest") or be divested of a shell, [husk](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/husk "Definition of husk"), [pod](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pod "Definition of pod"), etc
19\.
to separate or be separated from an ear, husk, [cob](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/cob "Definition of cob"), etc
20\. (transitive)
to [bombard](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bombard "Definition of bombard") with artillery shells
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Derived forms
shell-less (ˈshell-less)
adjective
shelly (ˈshelly)
adjective
Word origin
Old English sciell; related to Old Norse skel shell, Gothic skalja tile, Middle Low German schelle shell; see scale1, shale
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in British English
(ʃiːl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") , unstressed ʃɪl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
contraction of
she will or she [shall](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shall "Definition of shall")
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in Mechanical Engineering
(ʃɛl)
**Word forms:** (regular plural) shells
noun
(Mechanical engineering: General)
The shell of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
The car's shell (minus the doors, trunk lid, hood, and fenders) is lowered onto the chassis so the bodywork can be assembled.
Editing techniques let designers create shells of products such as fuselages.
The shell of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
Collins COBUILD Key Words for Mechanical Engineering. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
## Examples of 'shell' in a sentence shell
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Collins, or its parent company HarperCollins.
We welcome feedback: [report an example sentence](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/contact-us/) to the Collins team. [Read more…](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/how-do-we-create-our-corpus-examples/ "How were these examples chosen?")
One of the [engineers](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/engineer "Definition of engineers") was [injured](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/injure "Definition of injured") when a hot shell case landed on his neck.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
The hard shell serves as the [backing](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/backing "Definition of backing") and bottom and is filled with [padding](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pad "Definition of padding").
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
You [probably](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/probably "Definition of probably") have a slightly harder outer shell due to what you have experienced.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
One of the [tanks](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/tank "Definition of tanks") on the range fired a shell.
Oliver Poole BLACK KNIGHTS: On the Bloody Road to Baghdad (2003)
They use the acids in orange [juice](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/juice "Definition of juice") and [vinegar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/vinegar "Definition of vinegar") to [dissolve](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/dissolve "Definition of dissolve") the shells of [raw](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/raw "Definition of raw") eggs.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
Use the empty shells as serving dishes and fill with the white meat mixture.
The Sun (2014)
The hard [crimson](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/crimson "Definition of crimson") shell [retains](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/retain "Definition of retains") the [moisture](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/moisture "Definition of moisture") for long periods.
Smith, Drew Food Watch (1994)
We are [obsessed](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/obsess "Definition of obsessed") with [shallow](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shallow "Definition of shallow") outer shells.
The Sun (2013)
The creature bore only a [partial](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/partial "Definition of partial") shell on its back and displayed broadened ribs.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
He was [fixing](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/fixing "Definition of fixing") his car when the shell landed in front of the simple home where he and his family lived as fruit [farmers](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/farmer "Definition of farmers").
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
## Word lists with shell
[terms used in architecture](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/word-lists/architecture-terms-used-in-architecture#architecture-terms-used-in-architecture__1 "Word list of terms used in architecture") [boat](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/word-lists/boat-boats-and-ships#boat-boats-and-ships__1 "Word list of boat")
Quick word challenge
Quiz Review
Question: 1
\-
Score: 0 / 5
Which kind of *boat or ship* am I?
a small shallow-draft vessel carrying mounted guns and used by coastal patrols, etc
[xebec]()[gunboat]()[junk]()
Which kind of *boat or ship* am I?
short for **Vaucluse Junior**: a type of small yacht
[tender]()[bumboat]()[VJ]()
Which kind of *boat or ship* am I?
any small vessel designed for the landing of troops and equipment on beaches
[galleon]()[submarine]()[landing craft]()
Which kind of *boat or ship* am I?
a ship, usually a converted merchant ship, used to transport military personnel
[troopship]()[launch]()[bulk carrier]()
Which kind of *boat or ship* am I?
a ship powered by one or more steam-engines
[steamboat]()[steamship]()[steamer]()
Your score:
Check
See the answer
Next
Next quiz
Review
## More idioms containing shell
[come out of your shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/come-out-of-your-shell "Definition of come out of your shell")
[play a shell game](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/play-a-shell-game "Definition of play a shell game")
## Related word partners shell
[thin shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/thin-shell "Definition of thin shell")
[turtle shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/turtle-shell "Definition of turtle shell")
[walnut shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/walnut-shell "Definition of walnut shell")
## Trends of shell
Visible years:
Source: [Google Books Ngram Viewer](https://books.google.com/ngrams/info "Google Books Ngram Viewer")
## In other languages shell
British English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/thin-shell) /ʃɛl/ NOUN
**egg, nut** The *shell* of an egg or nut is its hard part.
- American English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell) /ˈʃɛl/
- Arabic: قِشْر
- Brazilian Portuguese: casca
- Chinese: [壳](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvY2hpbmVzZS1lbmdsaXNoLyVFNSVBMyVCMw==)
- Croatian: školjka
- Czech: skořápka
- Danish: skal
- Dutch: dop
- European Spanish: [cáscara](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL2MlQzMlQTFzY2FyYQ==)
- Finnish: kuori (kova)
- French: [coquille](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZnJlbmNoLWVuZ2xpc2gvY29xdWlsbGU=) (coquillage)
- German: [Schale](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZ2VybWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvc2NoYWxl) (Tier)
- Greek: κέλυφος
- Italian: [conchiglia](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvaXRhbGlhbi1lbmdsaXNoL2NvbmNoaWdsaWE=)
- Japanese: 殻
- Korean: [껍데기](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkva29yZWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvJUVBJUJCJThEJUVCJThEJUIwJUVBJUI4JUIw)
- Norwegian: skjell
- Polish: skorupka
- European Portuguese: [casca](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvcG9ydHVndWVzZS1lbmdsaXNoL2Nhc2Nh)
- Romanian: găoace
- Russian: раковина
- Spanish: [cáscara](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL2MlQzMlQTFzY2FyYQ==)
- Swedish: snäcka
- Thai: เปลือก
- Turkish: kabuk
- Ukrainian: шкаралупа
- Vietnamese: vỏ (ốc)
British English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/thin-shell) /ʃɛl/ NOUN
**animal** The *shell* of an animal such as a snail is the hard part that covers its back and protects it.
- American English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell) /ˈʃɛl/
- Arabic: صَدَفَة
- Brazilian Portuguese: concha
- Chinese: [壳](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvY2hpbmVzZS1lbmdsaXNoLyVFNSVBMyVCMw==)
- Croatian: oklop
- Czech: ulita
- Danish: skal
- Dutch: omhulsel
- European Spanish: [concha](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL2NvbmNoYQ==)
- Finnish: kuori
- French: [coquille](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZnJlbmNoLWVuZ2xpc2gvY29xdWlsbGU=) (escargot)
- German: [Schale](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZ2VybWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvc2NoYWxl)
- Greek: κέλυφος
- Italian: [guscio](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvaXRhbGlhbi1lbmdsaXNoL2d1c2Npbw==)
- Japanese: 殻
- Korean: [껍데기](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkva29yZWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvJUVBJUJCJThEJUVCJThEJUIwJUVBJUI4JUIw)
- Norwegian: skall
- Polish: muszla
- European Portuguese: carapaça
- Romanian: cochilie
- Russian: раковина (улитки)
- Spanish: [concha](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL2NvbmNoYQ==)
- Swedish: skal
- Thai: กระดอง
- Turkish: kabuk
- Ukrainian: панцир
- Vietnamese: vỏ
British English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/thin-shell) VERB /ʃɛl/
If you *shell* nuts, peas, prawns, or other food, you remove their natural outer covering.
She shelled and ate a few nuts.
- American English: [shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell) /ˈʃɛl/
- Brazilian Portuguese: descascar
- Chinese: 剥…的壳
- European Spanish: [pelar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL3BlbGFy)
- French: [décortiquer](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZnJlbmNoLWVuZ2xpc2gvZCVDMyVBOWNvcnRpcXVlcg==)
- German: [schälen](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvZ2VybWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvc2NoYWxlbg==)
- Italian: [sgusciare](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvaXRhbGlhbi1lbmdsaXNoL3NndXNjaWFyZQ==)
- Japanese: 殻をとる
- Korean: [껍데기를 벗기다](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkva29yZWFuLWVuZ2xpc2gvJUVBJUJCJThEJUVCJThEJUIwJUVBJUI4JUIwJUVCJUE1JUJDLSVFQiVCMiU5NyVFQSVCOCVCMCVFQiU4QiVBNA==)
- European Portuguese: [descascar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvcG9ydHVndWVzZS1lbmdsaXNoL2Rlc2Nhc2Nhcg==)
- Spanish: [pelar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/login?mode=popup§ion=dictionary&returnTo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29sbGluc2RpY3Rpb25hcnkuY29tL3VzL2RpY3Rpb25hcnkvc3BhbmlzaC1lbmdsaXNoL3BlbGFy)
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## Browse nearby entries shell
- [shelfroom](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shelfroom "Definition of shelfroom, nearby word of shell")
- [shelftalker](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shelftalker "Definition of shelftalker, nearby word of shell")
- [shelfy](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shelfy "Definition of shelfy, nearby word of shell")
- shell
- [shell back](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-back "Definition of shell back, nearby word of shell")
- [shell bean](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-bean "Definition of shell bean, nearby word of shell")
- [shell bursts](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell-bursts "Definition of shell bursts, nearby word of shell")
- [All ENGLISH words that begin with 'S'](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/browse/english/words-starting-with-s "All ENGLISH words that begin with 'S'")
## Related terms of shell
- [K-shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/k-shell "Definition of K-shell, related term of shell")
- [L-shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/l-shell "Definition of L-shell, related term of shell")
- [M-shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/m-shell "Definition of M-shell, related term of shell")
- [N-shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/n-shell "Definition of N-shell, related term of shell")
- [ark shell](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/ark-shell "Definition of ark shell, related term of shell")
- [View more related words](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shell/related "View all related words of 'shell'")
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Quick word challenge
Quiz Review
Question: 1
\-
Score: 0 / 5
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
What is this an image of?
[trombone]()[cello]()[clarinet]()[cymbals]()
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
What is this an image of?
[glockenspiel]()[trumpet]()[harp]()[xylophone]()
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
What is this an image of?
[cymbals]()[snare drum]()[flute]()[bagpipes]()
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
What is this an image of?
[trombone]()[violin]()[cello]()[mouth organ]()
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Drag the correct answer into the box.
acoustic guitar
grand piano
trumpet
cello
Your score:
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| Readable Markdown | COBUILD frequency band
## shell
(ʃɛl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
**Word forms:** plural, 3rd person singular present tense shells , present participle shelling , past tense, past participle shelled
1\. countable noun
The shell of a nut or egg is the hard covering which surrounds it.
They cracked the nuts and removed their shells.
Shell is the substance that a shell is made of.
...beads made from ostrich egg shell.
2\. countable noun
The shell of an animal such as a tortoise, snail, or crab is the hard protective covering that it has around its body or on its back.
...the spiral form of a snail shell.
3\. countable noun
Shells are hard objects found on beaches. They are usually pink, white, or brown and are the coverings which used to surround small sea creatures.
I collect shells and interesting seaside items.
4\. transitive verb
If you shell nuts, peas, [shrimp](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shrimp "Definition of shrimp"), or other food, you remove their natural outer covering.
She shelled and ate a few nuts.
5\. countable noun
If someone comes out of their shell, they become more friendly and interested in other people and less quiet, shy, and reserved.
Her normally shy son had come out of his shell.
6\. countable noun
The shell of a building, boat, car, or other structure is the outside frame of it.
...the shells of burned buildings.
7\. countable noun
A shell is a weapon consisting of a metal container filled with explosives that can be fired from a large gun over long distances.
Tanks fired shells at the house.
8\. transitive verb
To shell a place means to fire explosive shells at it.
The rebels shelled the densely-populated suburbs near the port.
shelling **Word forms:** plural shellings variable noun
Out on the streets, the shelling continued.
**Phrasal verbs:**
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll
(ʃil [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") , ʃɪl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-cobuild/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
She'll is the usual spoken form of \`she will.'
Sharon was a wonderful lady and I know she'll be greatly missed.
Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
American English pronunciation
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COBUILD frequency band
## shell in American English
(ʃɛl )
nounOrigin: ME schelle \< OE sciel, akin to MDu schelle \< IE base \*(s)kel-: see [shelf](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shelf "Definition of shelf")
1\.
a hard outer covering, as of a [turtle](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/turtle "Definition of turtle"), mollusk, insect, egg, fruit, seed, etc.
2\.
something like or [suggestive](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/suggestive "Definition of suggestive") of a shell in being hollow, [empty](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/empty "Definition of empty"), or [simply](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/simply "Definition of simply") a covering or framework, as the [hull](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/hull "Definition of hull") of a boat, a hollow pastry or unfilled pie [crust](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/crust "Definition of crust"), the framework of a building, a structure with an [arched](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/arch "Definition of arched") or hemispherical roof or back, a [tapered](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/taper "Definition of tapered") [beer](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/beer "Definition of beer") glass, etc.
3\.
to come out of one's shell
4\. US
5\. US
a long, narrow, thin-hulled racing boat rowed usually by a team of [oarsmen](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/oarsman "Definition of oarsmen")
6\.
an explosive artillery projectile containing high explosives and sometimes [shrapnel](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shrapnel "Definition of shrapnel"), chemicals, etc.
7\. US
a cartridge for small arms or small artillery, consisting of a metal, paper, or plastic case holding the primer, powder charge, and shot or bullet
8\.
a pyrotechnic cartridge which explodes high in the air
9\.
a.
a mollusk
b. (pl.)
10\. chemistry and physics
a.
any of the [spherical](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/spherical "Definition of spherical") or [elliptical](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/elliptical "Definition of elliptical") orbits of electrons around the nucleus of an atom, each with the same principal quantum number and about the same energy
b.
the space taken up by such an orbit
c.
verb transitive
11\.
to remove the shell or covering from; take out of the shell
to shell peas, oysters, etc.
13\.
to fire shells at from a large gun or guns; bombard
verb intransitive
14\.
to separate from the shell or covering
peanuts shell easily
15\.
16\. US
to [gather](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/gather "Definition of gather") or collect shells
**Idioms:**
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
Derived forms
shell-like (ˈshell-ˌlike)
adjective
shelly (ˈshelly)
adjective
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in American English
(ʃil , ʃɪl )
contraction
1\.
she will
2\.
she shall
Webster’s New World College Dictionary, 5th Digital Edition. Copyright © 2025 HarperCollins Publishers.
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in American English
(ʃel)
noun
1\.
a hard outer covering of an animal, as the hard case of a mollusk, or either half of the case of a [bivalve](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bivalve "Definition of bivalve") mollusk
2\.
any of various objects resembling such a covering, as in shape or in being more or less [concave](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/concave "Definition of concave") or hollow
3\.
the material constituting any of various coverings of this kind
4\.
5\.
the usually hard, outer covering of a seed, fruit, or the like, as the hard outside [portion](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/portion "Definition of portion") of a nut, the pod of peas, etc.
6\.
a hard, protecting or enclosing case or cover
7\.
an attitude or manner of reserve that usually [conceals](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/conceal "Definition of conceals") one's emotions, thoughts, etc.
One could not penetrate his shell
8\.
a hollow projectile for a [cannon](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/cannon "Definition of cannon"), [mortar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/mortar "Definition of mortar"), etc., filled with an explosive charge designed to explode during flight, upon impact, or after penetration
9\.
a [metallic](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/metallic "Definition of metallic") cartridge used in small arms and small artillery pieces
10\.
a metal or paper cartridge, as for use in a [shotgun](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shotgun "Definition of shotgun")
11\.
a cartridgelike pyrotechnic device that explodes in the air
13\.
the lower pastry crust of a pie, [tart](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/tart "Definition of tart"), or the like, [baked](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bake "Definition of baked") before the [filling](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/filling "Definition of filling") is added
14\. Computing
a program providing a menu-driven or graphical user [interface](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/interface "Definition of interface") designed to [simplify](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/simplify "Definition of simplify") use of the operating system, as in [loading](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/loading "Definition of loading") application programs
15\. Physics
a.
any of up to seven energy levels on which an electron may exist within an atom, the energies of the electrons on the same level being equal and on different levels being [unequal](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/unequal "Definition of unequal")
b.
a group of nucleons of approximately the same energy
16\.
a light, long, narrow racing boat, for rowing by one or more persons
17\.
the outer part of a finished garment that has a [lining](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/lining "Definition of lining"), esp. a detachable lining
18\.
a woman's sleeveless blouse or sweater, esp. one meant for wear under a suit [jacket](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/jacket "Definition of jacket")
19\. Nautical
the [plating](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/plating "Definition of plating"), [planking](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/plank "Definition of planking"), or the like, covering the [ribs](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/rib "Definition of ribs") and forming the exterior hull of a vessel
21\.
a mollusk
22\. Engineering
the curved solid forming a [dome](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/dome "Definition of dome") or [vault](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/vault "Definition of vault")
24\.
a saucer-shaped arena or stadium
25\.
the framework, external structure, or walls and roof of a building
After the fire, only the shell of the school was left
26\.
a small glass for beer
27\.
the metal, pressure-resistant outer casing of a fire-tube [boiler](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/boiler "Definition of boiler")
28\. Metallurgy
a.
b.
a length of unfinished tubing
c.
d.
a hollow object made by deep drawing
transitive verb
29\.
to take out of the shell, pod, etc.; remove the shell of
30\.
to separate (Indian corn, grain, etc.) from the ear, cob, or husk
31\.
to fire shells or explosive projectiles into, upon, or among; bombard
intransitive verb
32\.
to fall or come out of the shell, husk, etc
33\.
to come away or fall off, as a shell or outer coat
34\.
to gather sea shells
We spent the whole morning shelling while the tide was out
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
Derived forms
shell-less
adjective
shell-like
adjective
Word origin
\[bef. 900; (n.) ME; OE scell (north), sciell; c. D schil peel, skin, rink, ON skel shell, Goth skalja tile; (v.) deriv. of the n.; cf. shale\]
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in American English
(ʃil, unstressed ʃɪl)
contraction of
she will
USAGE See [contraction](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/contraction "Definition of contraction").
Most material © 2005, 1997, 1991 by Penguin Random House LLC. Modified entries © 2019 by Penguin Random House LLC and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in British English
(ʃɛl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
noun
1\.
2\.
3\.
4\.
the hard outer layer of some fruits, esp of [nuts](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/nut "Definition of nuts")
5\.
any hard outer case
7\.
8\.
a pyrotechnic cartridge designed to explode in the air
9\. rowing
a very light narrow racing boat
10\.
the external structure of a building, esp one that is [unfinished](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/unfinished "Definition of unfinished") or one that has been [gutted](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/gut "Definition of gutted") by fire
11\.
the basic [structural](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/structural "Definition of structural") case of something, such as a machine, vehicle, etc
12\. physics
13\.
14\.
15\. British
(in some schools) a class or form
verb
18\.
19\.
to separate or be separated from an ear, husk, [cob](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/cob "Definition of cob"), etc
20\. (transitive)
to [bombard](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/bombard "Definition of bombard") with artillery shells
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Derived forms
shell-less (ˈshell-less)
adjective
shelly (ˈshelly)
adjective
Word origin
Old English sciell; related to Old Norse skel shell, Gothic skalja tile, Middle Low German schelle shell; see scale1, shale
COBUILD frequency band
## she'll in British English
(ʃiːl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") , unstressed ʃɪl [](https://blog.collinsdictionary.com/ipa-pronunciation-guide-ced/ "IPA Pronunciation Guide") )
contraction of
she will or she [shall](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shall "Definition of shall")
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
COBUILD frequency band
## shell in Mechanical Engineering
(ʃɛl)
**Word forms:** (regular plural) shells
noun
(Mechanical engineering: General)
The shell of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
The car's shell (minus the doors, trunk lid, hood, and fenders) is lowered onto the chassis so the bodywork can be assembled.
Editing techniques let designers create shells of products such as fuselages.
The shell of a machine or vehicle is its basic structure.
Collins COBUILD Key Words for Mechanical Engineering. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
## Examples of 'shell' in a sentence shell
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content that does not reflect the opinions or policies of Collins, or its parent company HarperCollins.
One of the [engineers](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/engineer "Definition of engineers") was [injured](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/injure "Definition of injured") when a hot shell case landed on his neck.The hard shell serves as the [backing](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/backing "Definition of backing") and bottom and is filled with [padding](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/pad "Definition of padding").You [probably](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/probably "Definition of probably") have a slightly harder outer shell due to what you have experienced.One of the [tanks](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/tank "Definition of tanks") on the range fired a shell.They use the acids in orange [juice](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/juice "Definition of juice") and [vinegar](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/vinegar "Definition of vinegar") to [dissolve](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/dissolve "Definition of dissolve") the shells of [raw](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/raw "Definition of raw") eggs.Use the empty shells as serving dishes and fill with the white meat mixture.The hard [crimson](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/crimson "Definition of crimson") shell [retains](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/retain "Definition of retains") the [moisture](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/moisture "Definition of moisture") for long periods.We are [obsessed](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/obsess "Definition of obsessed") with [shallow](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/shallow "Definition of shallow") outer shells.The creature bore only a [partial](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/partial "Definition of partial") shell on its back and displayed broadened ribs.He was [fixing](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/fixing "Definition of fixing") his car when the shell landed in front of the simple home where he and his family lived as fruit [farmers](https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/farmer "Definition of farmers").
## More idioms containing shell
## Related word partners shell |
| Shard | 6 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 3710495105961603006 |
| Unparsed URL | com,collinsdictionary!www,/us/dictionary/english/shell s443 |