1
: a particular part or aspect (as of something being contemplated or considered)
Each facet of the problem requires careful analysis.
2
: a small plane surface (as on a cut gem) see brilliant illustration
3
: the external corneal surface of an ommatidium
Houseflies have about 350 facets per eye, while dragonflies have a whopping 30,000.—
Brad Wetzler
Brad Wetzler4
: a smooth flat circumscribed anatomical surface (as of a bone)
the articular facet of a rib
Examples of facet in a Sentence
Each facet of the problem requires careful attention.
the different facets of our culture
Which facet of his character is most appealing?
the facets of a diamond
Recent Examples on the Web
Over three seasons, Emmanwori started 36 games and affected the game in every facet.
—Sam Warren, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
This model was introduced in 2017 as a softer, more rounded alternative to angular Octo (The original features 110 facets, while the Roma showcases 58).
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
The milestone festivities come amid deep political divisions that have seeped into nearly every facet of American life, including how people view the country’s history and identity.
—Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026
The hoard even represents the idea that facets of social life are interwoven and connected.
—Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 25 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for facet
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Sam Warren, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
This model was introduced in 2017 as a softer, more rounded alternative to angular Octo (The original features 110 facets, while the Roma showcases 58).
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
The milestone festivities come amid deep political divisions that have seeped into nearly every facet of American life, including how people view the country’s history and identity.
—Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026
The hoard even represents the idea that facets of social life are interwoven and connected.
—Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 25 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for facet
Cite this Entry
“Facet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/facet. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
facet
noun
fac·et
ˈfas-ət 
1
: a small plane surface (as on a cut gem)
2
: a definable aspect of something
explained all facets of the company
3
: the surface of a functional unit of vision of a compound eye
faceted
adjective
ˈfas-ət-əd
Medical Definition
facet
noun
fac·et
ˈfas-ət
ˌfa-ˈset
: a smooth flat or nearly flat circumscribed anatomical surface
the articular facet of a bone
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