topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

1

a

: a mineral that is essentially a silicate of aluminum and usually occurs in orthorhombic translucent or transparent crystals or in white translucent masses

b

: a usually yellow to brownish-yellow transparent mineral topaz used as a gem

c

: a yellow sapphire

d

: a yellow quartz

2

: either of two large brilliantly colored South American hummingbirds (Topaza pella and T. pyra)

Examples of topaz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Those traditional, extended glass vitrines that create more of a separation between shoppers and staff are being replaced, and the color palettes of store interiors are changing from dark brown to tourmaline, sunstone and topaz. —David Moin, Footwear News, 16 June 2025

The ancient Greeks thought topaz would bring strength. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024

Australian film director, Baz Luhrmann, wore a set of three platinum and diamond Harwell Godfrey brooches: Petunia Brooch, Bee Brooch, Sunflower Brooch Irish actor, Andrew Scott, wore the 18k yellow gold Harwell Godfrey Evil Eye ring with onyx, smokey topaz. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Inside the chamber was a sandstone chest containing five reliquaries (containers for holy relics), which held bones and ash alongside nearly 1,800 pearls, rubies, topazes, sapphires and other gems. —Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English topace, from Anglo-French, from Latin topazus, from Greek topazos

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing topaz

• fire topaz
• mystic fire topaz
• mystic topaz
• smoky topaz

Rhymes for topaz

• whereas
• as
• has
• jazz

Kids Definition

topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

: a mineral in the form of usually yellow to brownish yellow crystals that is valued as a gem