shelly adjective. ['ʃɛli] M16.
[from SHELL noun + -Y¹.]
1. Having many shells, esp. sea shells; (of a geological formation) consisting wholly or mainly of shells. M16.

2. Of the nature of a shell; forming a covering resembling a shell; shell-like. L16.
b. Of a thin, bony, and lanky build. M19.

3. Of an animal: having a shell. L16.

4. Formed from a shell, esp. a sea shell; consisting of sea shells or shell fish. E18.

Comb.:
shelly-coat Scot. (a) a water-spirit wearing sea shells which make a clattering noise; (b) a sheriff's officer or bailiff (so named from the buttons and badges of office on his coat).

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲