clay
UK: kleɪ | US: kleɪ
n. a natural earthy material that is soft and malleable when wet, used for making pottery, bricks, etc.
n. (figurative) the human body, especially as mortal or physical (e.g., "we are all made of clay").
The word "clay" traces back to Old English clǣg, meaning "sticky earth" or "mud." It shares roots with Proto-Germanic klaijaz and is related to Dutch klei and German Klei, all referring to cohesive, plastic earth. The term has retained its core meaning across centuries, reflecting its fundamental role in pottery and construction. Unlike many words, "clay" is monomorphic—its spelling and meaning have remained intact without compounding or affixation.
The potter shaped the wet clay into a delicate vase.
Ancient civilizations used clay tablets for writing.
The soil here is rich in clay, making it ideal for brickmaking.
His hands were covered in clay after working in the studio.
"We are but dust and clay," the poet mused on human frailty.