sapphire

[ saf-ahyuhr ]

noun

1. any gem variety of corundum other than the ruby, especially one of the blue varieties.
2. a gem of this kind.
3. the color of this gem, a deep blue.

adjective

1. resembling sapphire; deep blue:

   a sapphire sky.

sapphire

/ ˈsæfaɪə /

noun

1. 1. any precious corundum gemstone that is not red, esp the highly valued transparent blue variety. A synthetic form is used in electronics and precision apparatus. Formula: Al 2 O 3
   2. ( as modifier )

      a sapphire ring

2. 1. the blue colour of sapphire
   2. ( as adjective )

      sapphire eyes

sapphire

/ săf′īr′ /

1. A clear, fairly pure form of the mineral corundum that is usually blue but may be any color except red. It often contains small amounts of oxides of cobalt, chromium, and titanium and is valued as a gem.
2. Compare ruby

Word History and Origins

Origin of sapphire¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English saphir(e), saph(i)er, from Old French safir(e), saffir, saffer, from Latin sapphīrus, sappīrus, from Greek sáppheiros, perhaps “lapis lazuli, lazurite, sapphire,” probably from Semitic (compare Hebrew sappīr, and probably a loanword in Semitic); sappīr and related Semitic forms perhaps come from Sanskrit śanipuriya “dear to (the planet) Saturn,” equivalent to Śani “(the planet) Saturn” + priyá- “dear”; further origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of sapphire¹

C13 safir, from Old French, from Latin sapphīrus, from Greek sappheiros, perhaps from Hebrew sappīr, ultimately perhaps from Sanskrit śanipriya, literally: beloved of the planet Saturn, from śani Saturn + priya beloved

Example Sentences

A Friends of the Children national ambassador for five years, Biles was presented a custom gold and sapphire necklace with the organization’s logo in appreciation for her work in helping empower children facing foster care, poverty and other situations.

From Los Angeles Times

“I’m trying to find out about that Cali life,” said Huling, 71, with a grin as he sparked the freshly rolled joint of Maven Orange Sapphire.

From Los Angeles Times

Occasionally they’re interrupted by bursts of jewel-tone color — ruby, emerald, sapphire, amethyst.

From Los Angeles Times

Over 25 carats of diamonds surround the band, and an unenhanced pink sapphire sits at its center.

From Los Angeles Times

The sapphire, the color of ripe dragon fruit, is cut in such a way that it appears to contain multitudes.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blue-green