china
chi-na · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
High-quality ceramic material, also known as porcelain, typically white and translucent.
- 2.
Household tableware made of porcelain or similar materials.
- 3.
(capitalized as China) A country in East Asia.
Phrases & expressions
- •bone china — porcelain containing bone ash, known for its strength and whiteness
- •fine china — high-quality porcelain tableware
- •china shop — a store selling porcelain (as in "bull in a china shop")
- •china cabinet — a display case for porcelain items
Related words
Etymology
From Persian chīnī ("Chinese"), referring to the country where porcelain was first produced. The word entered English through trade routes, as Chinese porcelain was highly prized in Europe. The material became so associated with its origin that "china" became a common noun for porcelain itself.