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

Iconic in every sense, one of my favourite pieces has to be Princess Diana’s sapphire and diamond cluster engagement ring. —Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

Princess Anne chose to wear her gold, sapphire and pearl drop earrings, along with a three-row pearl necklace that belonged to her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. —Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 18 June 2025

One of her go-to jewels is also an heirloom from Princess Diana, as Prince William proposed to Kate in 2010 with his late mother's sapphire and diamond engagement ring. —Janine Henni, People.com, 16 June 2025

The shimmering, snake-like piece blends bands of diamonds and sapphires that cascade down. —Jessica Rendall, Space.com, 4 June 2025

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