Sapling Logo

“Pearl” or “Purl”

Overview

pearl / purl are similar-sounding terms with different meanings (referred to as homophones). To better understand the differences, see below for definitions, pronunciation guides, and example sentences using each term. 👇

Definitions

pearl: (noun) a smooth lustrous round structure inside the shell of a clam or oyster; much valued as a jewel. (verb) gather pearls, from oysters in the ocean.

purl: (noun) gold or silver wire thread. (noun) a basic knitting stitch. (verb) knit with a purl stitch. (verb) edge or border with gold or silver embroidery. (verb) embroider with gold or silver thread.

Pronunciation

pearl: p·ER·l

purl: NA

Trends

📈 See Trends

Looking for a tool that handles this for you wherever you write?

Get Sapling

Examples in Context

Examples of “pearl”

  • in 1941, enlisting right after Pearl Harbor, and served in the
  • at Bokoni sites are sorghum, pearl millet, and maize.
  • Chains, The Smashing Pumpkins and Pearl Jam.
  • Song of the Pearl (1976)
  • Rachel Hetherington, Se Ri Pak, Pearl Sinn.
  • United States Navy right after Pearl Harbor attack.
  • Pearl White (US, JP, 2004)
  • Toys 'R' Us Pearl Green (US, 2004)
  • Arrived Pearl Harbor 24 August, the ship
  • the Jungle, 50 First Dates, Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, Blue Crush, The

Examples of “purl”

  • Persistent uniform resource locator (PURL)


(Examples are Wikipedia snippets under the CC ShareAlike 3.0 license. Definitions drawn from WordNet.)


Too Much to Remember?

Install Sapling