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 sapphire hues in the Voyager 2 mission photos were exaggerated by image processing to showcase the swirling cloud patterns more prominently. —Shi En Kim, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 Nov. 2024

Navy Gemstone Cold Cup: Similar to the Gemstone Cold Cup, but in a navy color reminiscent of sapphire gemstones. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic, 3 Nov. 2024

Nevertheless, Chanel followed up this year with a version in pink sapphire crystal, even more difficult thanks to the formidable challenge of maintaining color consistency across the limited edition of 12. —Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024

The dial is housed in a 45mm pink gold case and bezel with a thickness of 16.87mm due to an extra-high sapphire crystal that provides both a side and top view of the knights. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes, 30 Oct. 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