scrimshaw
/ˈskrɪmʃɔː
/verb [with object]
Adorn ivory or shells with carved or coloured designs: (as adjective scrimshawed) the scrimshawed jewellery and antique furniture on sale...
- While he was scrimshawing it, he was reminded of a puzzling question which of course I don't know the answer to.
- Some sea shells, such as abalone, have been scrimshawed and horn, particularly cattle horn, is also scrimshawed.
- It has been scrimshawed and carved by the hand of this talented carver.
noun [mass noun]
Scrimshawed ivory or shells: a collection of scrimshaw...
- While collectors do appreciate the potential investment value of scrimshaw, that is not usually their primary reason for acquiring it.
- In their leisure time, though, whalemen often practised the art of scrimshaw, creating unique and beautiful works of art as well as practical and useful tools and implements.
- Nonetheless, there were interesting antique collectibles bought, such as scrimshaw you see once and don't see again.
Origin
Early 19th century: of unknown origin; perhaps influenced by the surname Scrimshaw.
- OFM
- of mark
- of necessity
- of no fixed abode
- of no fixed address (or abode)
- of note
- of old
- of one's choice
- of one's own
- of one's own accord
- of one's (own) making
- of (or by or on) one's own volition
- of (or for) a surety
- of (or from) the old school
- Ofrail
- of some size
- of sorts
- Ofsted
- oft
- Oftel
- often
- oftenness
- oftens
- oftentime
- oftentimes