English Explanatory Dictionary

Rupert's drop

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A glass bead created by dripping molten glass into cold water so it solidifies into a tadpole shape with a very tough head but a long fragile tail which, if damaged, causes the bead to disintegrate explosively.

Word forms

Rupert's drop Rupert's drops

Etymology

Named after Prince Rupert of the Rhine, nephew of Charles I, who brought them to England in 1660.

Synonyms

Dutch tear glass tear Prince Rupert's drop Prince Rupert's tear Rupert's tear
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