bezel

[ bez-uhl ]

noun

1. the diagonal face at the end of the blade of a chisel, or the like, leading to the edge.
2. Jewelry.
   1. that part of a ring, bracelet, etc., to which gems are attached.
   2. crown ( def 27 ).
3. a grooved ring or rim holding a gem, watch crystal, etc., in its setting.
4. Automotive. the part of a vehicle's bodywork that surrounds a light.
5. the plastic or metal rim framing and protecting the screen on a phone, tablet, or other device:

   Phones without visible bezels have a clean, minimalistic look, but when you’re always holding your phone by its screen, it smudges up pretty fast.

bezel

/ ˈbɛzəl /

noun

1. the sloping face adjacent to the working edge of a cutting tool
2. the upper oblique faces of a cut gem
3. a grooved ring or part holding a gem, watch crystal, etc
4. a retaining outer rim used in vehicle instruments, e.g. in tachometers and speedometers
5. a small indicator light used in vehicle instrument panels

Word History and Origins

Origin of bezel¹

First recorded in 1605–15; origin obscure; probably akin to French biseau bevel, chamfer

Word History and Origins

Origin of bezel¹

C17: probably from French biseau , perhaps from Latin bis twice

Example Sentences

The ring has a rectangular bezel which is decorated with a central raised panel design with two cross saltires formed from two inside lines and a transverse line forming an open V shape.

From BBC

In a flash, and through a bevy of bezels and gold, there he appeared.

From Los Angeles Times

Made with a distressed steel case, a 18-karat white gold bezel and nubuck alligator strap, this exquisite watch invites you to marvel at the intricacy of seconds without distraction.

From Los Angeles Times

Francis Santos combines her love for animals with fashion in these endearing embroidered stud earrings made with stainless steel bezels and gray linen fabric.

From Los Angeles Times

Apple Watch Ultra The Apple Watch Ultra features a large, flat display with a protective bezel.

From The Verge