onyx

noun

on·​yx ˈä-niks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: a translucent chalcedony in parallel layers of different colors

Examples of onyx in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Some of her favorites to look out for include brass, marble, onyx, and alabaster, just to name a few. Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2024 They are juxtaposed with Balzano’s Loci series of elegant jewelry boxes, fashioned from materials such as polished bronze and green onyx that evoke Constantin Brâncuși and Carlo Scarpa. Alia Akkam, Architectural Digest, 11 Sep. 2024 The pendant can be twisted to reveal a black onyx side or a 14-karat gold side per the wearer’s preference. Layla Ilchi, WWD, 17 Sep. 2024 The statue is surrounded by hedges and rounded symmetrical benches reflecting an Italianate Garden, symbolic of Kobe’s childhood in Italy with engraved butterflies made of purple onyx and golden vein onyx bordering purple and gold flowers, symbolizing transformation and hope. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 5 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for onyx 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'onyx.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English oniche, onyx, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin onych-, onyx, from Greek, literally, claw, nail — more at nail

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of onyx was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near onyx

Cite this Entry

“Onyx.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onyx. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

onyx

noun
on·​yx ˈän-iks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: chalcedony in parallel layers of different color

More from Merriam-Webster on onyx

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