terra-cotta
UK: ˌter.əˈkɒt.ə | US: ˌter.əˈkɑː.t̬ə
n. 1. A type of hard, unglazed, reddish-brown earthenware, often used for pottery or architectural decoration.
n. 2. The color of this material; a warm reddish-brown hue.
The word "terra-cotta" originates from Italian, where "terra" means "earth" and "cotta" translates to "baked" (past participle of "cuocere," to cook). It literally means "baked earth," reflecting the material’s composition and manufacturing process—clay molded and fired at high temperatures. The term entered English in the 18th century, retaining its original Italian spelling and vivid imagery of craftsmanship.
The museum displayed ancient terra-cotta sculptures from the Qin dynasty.
She painted her garden pots in a warm terra-cotta shade.
The architect chose terra-cotta tiles for the building’s facade.
Terra-cotta is prized for its durability and natural aesthetic.
The artisan molded the wet clay into a terra-cotta vase before firing it.