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

Those traditional, extended glass vitrines that create more of a separation between shoppers and staff are being replaced, and the color palettes of store interiors are changing from dark brown to tourmaline, sunstone and topaz. —David Moin, WWD, 4 Dec. 2024

In Sterling Silver Save 50% on this best-selling blue topaz bracelet at Blue Nile’s Cyber Monday sale. —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 3 Dec. 2024

Her middle finger is a collision of colors, with a subtle navy tip blending into a topaz yellow, ending with a magenta-and-black fusion. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 21 Nov. 2024

Blue topaz is a traditional fourth wedding anniversary gift, while Imperial topaz is for the twenty-third wedding anniversary, the Geological Institute of America reports. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024

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