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hardshell

hardshell

1 4.4
A waterproof jacket with a hard outer surface to keep you dry
  • noun
  • /ˈhɑrdˌʃɛl/
translation icon : chaqueta impermeable
  • Investing in a quality hardshell garment is essential for outdoor enthusiasts facing harsh weather.
  • waterproof hardshell
  • hardshell case

Examples

  • Inside the spacesuit, with its hardshell torso and servomotor-amplified gloves, Pancho felt like some superhero out of a kids' video confronting a mere mortal.

    Fiction book (2001)
  • She wore a hardshell jacket to protect herself from the rain during the hike.

  • "Mighty fine, mighty fine, Cyrus," Alma said as she put her mandolin back in its hardshell case.

    Fiction book (1998)
  • This time he retrieved not the bowling ball bag Alex expected, but two top-of-the-line Fort Knox brand hardshell portable computer cases.

    Fiction book (2000)
  • Even though The Joy Factory has a number of iPad Mini cases ready for pre-order, the Fizz stands out with a hardshell back plate with distinctive lines, a built-in stand, and a festive pop of color.

    Blog text (33)
  • The hardshell suitcase kept all her belongings safe and dry while traveling.

Synonyms

shell
vshardshell
296 1.0

A hard outer covering that protects animals, eggs, or nuts

refers to manufactured protective garments or cases rather than biological coverings
outer
vshardshell
3 3.8

A coat or jacket you wear over other clothes for warmth

has a rigid or tough external surface and is often waterproof for outdoors
hardshell suitcase
vshardshell
3.4

A suitcase with a hard outer shell that protects items inside during travel

covers both protective clothing and rigid containers, not only travel luggage
hardcase
vshardshell
4.4

A hard, protective box for carrying delicate items like cameras

is used for waterproof outer garments or general protective cases, not only equipment transport

Antonyms

4.1

With a soft, flexible outer layer that blocks wind and light rain

Compounds

A tough outer layer that protects things like suitcases or turtles from damage

A suitcase with a hard outer shell that protects items inside during travel

How Protective

hardshell
1 4.4
to jacket
1 6.8

Surface Forms

hardshell singular
hardshells plural

Morphology

hardshell = hard + shell (transparent) = hard + shell

As a compound noun for protective garments or cases, the meaning is directly inferable from 'hard' + 'shell'.

Etymology

The word hardshell comes from hard 'firm' and shell 'protective outside cover', like an eggshell or a turtle's shell, which helps you picture a strong outer layer. So a hardshell is a protective outer garment or case that keeps you dry and safe.