stoneware
/ˈstəʊn.weə/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A hard type of pottery made from clay and baked at a very high temperature. It is strong, dense, and often used for dishes, mugs, and jars.
- This mug is made of stoneware.
- She bought a stoneware baking dish.
- Stoneware is stronger than ordinary clay pots.
Adinary Nuance
Stoneware is firmer and less delicate than pottery like earthenware. It is not the same as porcelain, which is usually smoother and more refined. Use stoneware when the material is strong, heavy, and made for everyday use.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- đồ gốm sứ
- Spanish
- gres
- Chinese
- 炻器
- Japanese
- せっき
- Korean
- 석기
Etymology
The word comes from stone + ware, meaning goods or objects made like stone. It has been used in English since the 1700s for hard, fired pottery.
Common phrases
stoneware mugstoneware dishstoneware potteryglazed stoneware
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is stoneware the same as ceramic?
- Stoneware is a type of ceramic. It is usually denser and stronger than many other ceramics.
- What is the difference between stoneware and porcelain?
- Stoneware is heavier and more rustic. Porcelain is smoother, lighter, and often more delicate.
- Is stoneware used for cooking?
- Yes. Stoneware is often used for baking dishes, mugs, and serving bowls.
- Is stoneware a common word in daily English?
- It is common in shopping, cooking, and homeware contexts, but not in casual speech.