topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

1

a

: a mineral that is essentially a silicate of aluminum and usually occurs in orthorhombic translucent or transparent crystals or in white translucent masses

b

: a usually yellow to brownish-yellow transparent mineral topaz used as a gem

c

: a yellow sapphire

d

: a yellow quartz

2

: either of two large brilliantly colored South American hummingbirds (Topaza pella and T. pyra)

Examples of topaz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The ring, in fact, is probably the biggest style statement from the bash, as many speculate the opal (the birthstone of her Libra football beau) is surrounded by blue topaz (the Sagittarius singer's birth stone). —Brittany Talarico, Peoplemag, 19 Dec. 2023

Elsewhere, the most head-turning jewels of the night were vintage: Dua Lipa donned a Tiffany & Co. necklace from 1962, which was fabricated in gold and platinum with luxurious yellow beryl, topaz quartz, and diamonds. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 8 Jan. 2024

Others suggested the ring may be comprised of opal and blue topaz, representing both Kelce and Swift's birth stones. —Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 16 Dec. 2023

The bling boasts several blue topaz surrounding a large opal, and is reportedly a gift from the musician’s boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, as the two gems happen to be the pair’s respective birthstones. —Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 19 Dec. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English topace, from Anglo-French, from Latin topazus, from Greek topazos

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing topaz

• fire topaz
• mystic fire topaz
• mystic topaz
• smoky topaz

Kids Definition

topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

: a mineral in the form of usually yellow to brownish yellow crystals that is valued as a gem