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.
Plant in gritty soil in shallow, unglazed terra-cotta planters for good drainage. — Steve Bender, Southern Living, 30 May 2026 Brown, tan, beige, and terra-cotta mimic the desert and prairie landscapes. — Elle Turner, Glamour, 31 May 2026 The exterior may be a rich terra-cotta shade, but the interiors are all bright and airy. — Jessica Cherner, Architectural Digest, 5 June 2026 Its finicky drainage needs are easier to manage in a pot, and lavender always looks fantastic in a large terra-cotta planter. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 June 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

Rhymes for terra-cotta

See All Rhymes for terra-cotta

Browse Nearby Words

Terracina
terra-cotta
terra-cotta lumber
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terra-cotta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terra-cotta. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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"

More from Merriam-Webster on terra-cotta

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about terra-cotta

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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