terra-cotta

noun

ter·​ra-cot·​ta ˌter-ə-ˈkä-tə How to pronounce terra-cotta (audio)
often attributive
1
: a glazed or unglazed fired clay used especially for statuettes and vases and architectural purposes (as for roofing, facing, and relief ornamentation)
also : something made of this material
2
: a brownish orange

Examples of terra-cotta in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to Futeral, any plant that dries out between waterings will do well in a terra-cotta pot. Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 11 Feb. 2026 Inspired by Mediterranean pieces, this coverlet is styled best with terra-cotta floors, a humble wood side table, and a small impressionist painting above a four-poster bed. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 10 Feb. 2026 The adjoining bathroom maintains its original cementina floor tiles and is finished in a pink concrete-resin playing off the existing terra-cotta tones. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 8 Feb. 2026 Natural stone and terra-cotta tiles: Rugged, textural finishes are a desert signature. Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for terra-cotta

Word History

Etymology

Italian terra cotta, literally, baked earth

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of terra-cotta was in 1722

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terra-cotta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terra-cotta. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

terra-cotta

noun
ter·​ra-cot·​ta
ˌter-ə-ˈkät-ə
plural terra-cottas
1
: a glazed or unglazed baked clay used for pottery, statues, and building materials
also : something made of this material
2
: a brownish orange
Etymology

from Italian terra cotta, literally "baked earth," derived from Latin terra "earth" and Latin coquere "to cook"

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