Pronunciation

/cleɪ/

Definitions

• Noun: [1] A natural, earthy material that is plastic when wet and hardens when dry, used to make pottery, bricks, and other objects. [2] A deposit of such material, typically in a loose state suitable for forming by pressure. [3] (geology) A layer of sedimentary rock formed from the accumulation of clay minerals.
• Verb: To shape or mold clay, often metaphorically referring to create or form something. [2] To use clay as a medium for artistic expression.

Phrases

• “Work with clay” refers to the activity of shaping and modeling clay.
• “Pottery made from clay” highlights the use of clay as a raw material for ceramics.
• “Clay deposits” indicate areas where the material is found naturally.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The artist sculpted a beautiful vase out of clay.”
• Verb: “She spent the afternoon kneading and molding clay to make a functional teapot.”
• Metaphorical: “His ideas were as malleable as clay, easily shaped by others’ opinions.”

Synonyms

-陶土, earthenware, earth, mud

• Model (as in shaping), mold, fashion, shape
• Raw material, source, bedrock

Antonyms

• Concrete, stone, metal, glass (in comparison to its malleability)