opal

noun

ˈō-pəl 

: a usually amorphous mineral that is a hydrated silica softer and less dense than quartz and typically with definite and often marked iridescent play of colors and is used especially as a gem

Examples of opal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These included Mirasol, which is named after the El Mirasol villa — one of architect Addison Mizner’s most famous designs — and played with volumes, cabochon cuts and a mix of gold, pink opal and freshwater pearls in a chunky ring, earrings and a standout long necklace. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

Swift completed the look with a swooping updo and her signature red lip, and accessorized with Le Vian jewelry (including earrings and a diamond-and-opal pendant necklace worth $24,000) and engagement ring. —Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025

While Opalite is an artificial product, it's made to look like opal, which is Kelce's birthstone. —Lian Brooks, Glamour, 3 Oct. 2025

On one side is a series of colored gems such as ruby, Australian opal, London blue topaz and labradorite; while the reverse side is paved with diamonds. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin opalus, from Greek opallios, ultimately from Sanskrit upala stone, jewel

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing opal

• fire opal

Rhymes for opal

• copal
• propyl
• isopropyl

Kids Definition

opal

noun

ˈō-pəl 

: a mineral with changeable colors that is used as a gem