sapphire

noun

sap·​phire ˈsa-ˌfī(-ə)r 

1

a

: a gem variety of corundum in transparent or translucent crystals of a color other than red

especially : one of a transparent rich blue

b

: a gem of such corundum

2

: a deep purplish-blue color

sapphire adjective

Examples of sapphire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The entire nail was painted a bright sapphire blue color that almost perfectly matched the Knicks logo on the court—was that on purpose, Cardi?—and magnetized for that gorgeous shape-shifting shimmer. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 13 May 2025

Queen Camilla appeared beside him in a sapphire blue wool crepe dress and coat, adorned with a 12th Royal Lancers Brooch – honoring her late father’s regiment. —Olivia Kemp, CNN Money, 5 May 2025

The actress wore a Bulgari high jewelry necklace with a sugarloaf sapphire center stone to complete her look. —Shannon Adducci, Robb Report, 5 May 2025

During the episode, the Doctor takes a coach tour to see the planet's famous sapphire waterfall, while companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) stays back at the resort for some R&R. —Richard Edwards, Space.com, 26 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English safir, from Anglo-French, from Latin sapphirus, from Greek sappheiros, perhaps of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew sappīr sapphire

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing sapphire

• star sapphire
• water sapphire

Kids Definition

sapphire

noun

sap·​phire ˈsaf-ˌī(ə)r 

1

: a clear bright blue precious stone

2

: a deep purplish blue

sapphire adjective

Etymology

Middle English safir "sapphire," from early French safir (same meaning), from Latin sapphirus "sapphire," from Greek sappheiros (same meaning), perhaps of Semitic origin