ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pottery

n. C / U
B1 Intermediate US //ˈpɑtɝi// UK //pˈɒtəɹi// pot·tery

n. objects like pots, bowls, or plates that are made out of clay and then baked in a very hot oven to make them hard. It also refers to the activity or craft of making these items.

n. ceramic ware made of clay and hardened by heat; also the craft or workshop of a potter. Uncountable when referring to the material or the activity; countable when referring to a specific manufacturing site.


SIMPLE

She takes a pottery class every Tuesday evening.

CONTEXTUAL

The museum displays ancient Greek pottery that was found buried deep under the city streets.

COMPLEX

While industrial manufacturing produces uniform ceramics, handmade pottery often retains the subtle fingerprints of the artist, giving each vessel a unique character and texture.

Synonyms
Origin

From Old French poterie, from potier (“potter”), from the root of pot, equivalent to pot + -ery. First attested in the 13th century.

Usage

Uncountable for the craft or the general category of objects; countable when referring to a factory or studio where such items are made.

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