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 Princess of Wales, who was all smiles, completed the casual look with her sapphire and diamond engagement ring, which belonged to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. —Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 9 Jan. 2025

The sapphire crystal is domed and features an anti-reflective coating inside to avoid glare. —Roberta Naas, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025

Shop it in navy, forest, sapphire, or black before your next winter wedding rolls around. —Rachel Sylvester, Glamour, 6 Jan. 2025

The Princess of Wales has also experimented with her usual jewelry this year and occasionally switched out her iconic sapphire engagement ring that previously belonged to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, for a sparkly stack of bands including an unusual new eternity ring. —Janine Henni, People.com, 6 Dec. 2024

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