ENGLISH
REFERENCE

shelly

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈʃɛɫi// UK //ʃˈɛli// shelly

adj. describing something that is full of shells or looks like a shell. You might use this to talk about a beach or the texture of a rock.

adj. consisting of, containing, or abounding in shells; resembling a shell in texture or appearance. Often used to describe geological formations or coastal environments.


SIMPLE

The children played on the shelly beach all afternoon.

CONTEXTUAL

The geologist pointed out the shelly limestone layers that proved the area was once underwater.

COMPLEX

Walking along the shelly shoreline, we noticed how the crushed fragments of ancient mollusks created a rough, white path that glittered under the midday sun.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun to describe physical composition or texture.

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