abalone n 1: any of various large edible marine gastropods of the genus Haliotis having an ear-shaped shell with pearly interior [syn: {abalone}, {ear-shell}]
Abalone \Ab`a*lo"ne\ ([a^]b`[.a]*l[=o]"n[-e]), n. (Zool.) A univalve mollusk of the genus {Haliotis}. The shell is lined with mother-of-pearl, and used for ornamental purposes; the sea-ear. Several large species are found on the coast of California, clinging closely to the rocks. [1913 Webster]