Bepearl

/bɪˈpɝl/ verb

Definition

To adorn or decorate something with pearls or pearl-like objects.

Etymology

From 'be-' prefix + 'pearl'. This formation reflects the Early Modern English practice of creating transitive verbs meaning 'to cover with' or 'to furnish with' by adding 'be-' to nouns, especially precious materials.

Kelly Says

Shakespeare and his contemporaries used these 'be-' constructions to paint luxurious images—'bepearled' gowns shimmered with wealth and status in a single vivid word.

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