Synonyms for

Ivory

Verb / ˈaɪvɜ:i: / / ˈaɪvri: / Another word for ivory — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Ivory is a hard, white material from the tusks of elephants, walruses, and other animals. It is often used to make decorative objects.

Synonyms & similar words

bone offwhite tusk pearl tusk tusks elephantine off-white white cream-colored milky pearly chalky porcelain bone shell off-white white-as-snow snowy snow-white alabaster marble faience selenite

Synonyms by register

Formal

ivory white bone white creamy white

Informal

off-white cream eggshell

Literary

pale gold alabaster nacreous

Antonyms

dark black colored painted dyed synthetic

Common collocations

  • ivory tower
  • ivory trade
  • ivory coast
  • ivory soap
  • ivory keys
  • ivory handle
  • ivory color

Word family

noun ivory
adjective ivory

Usage note

While 'ivory' can refer to the color, it primarily denotes the material from elephant tusks. Its use as a color term is often associated with a warm, off-white shade. Be mindful of the ethical implications when referring to the material.

Example sentences

  1. The ivory keys of the piano were smooth and cool to the touch.
  2. The carving was made from ivory and was very intricate.
  3. Ivory is a valuable material and is often used to make jewelry.
  4. Poachers hunt elephants for their ivory tusks, which is illegal.
  5. The antique dealer had a beautiful ivory statue on display.

Quotes

  • All the gold and the ivory and the silks in the world are not worth the old gray donkey that stands by the road.
  • Ivory towers are as rare as they are beautiful.
  • The elephant has a trunk, which he uses for many purposes. One of them is to say hello.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words