Coat-of-mail shell (noun)
Definition: A coat-of-mail shell is a type of sea creature known as a mollusk. It has a long, symmetrical shape and is covered by eight hard, shell-like plates. These plates protect the soft body inside, similar to how armor protects a soldier.
Usage Instructions: You can use "coat-of-mail shell" when talking about marine animals, especially when discussing their characteristics or habitats.
Example Sentence: "The coat-of-mail shell is often found in rocky areas of the ocean, where it can hide from predators."
Advanced Usage: In a more scientific context, you might describe the coat-of-mail shell as part of the mollusk family and discuss its role in the marine ecosystem or its evolutionary adaptations.
Word Variants: There are no common variants of "coat-of-mail shell," but you may see it referred to simply as "coat shell."
Different Meanings: - The term "coat" on its own can also mean an outer layer of clothing. However, in "coat-of-mail shell," it specifically refers to the protective shell of the mollusk.
Synonyms: You might not find direct synonyms for "coat-of-mail shell," but related terms include "mollusk," "shellfish," or "marine animal."
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "coat-of-mail shell," but you might encounter phrases like "to shell out" (to spend money) or "to have a shell" (to have a protective barrier, metaphorically).