turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌkȯiz  -ˌkwȯiz 

variants or less commonly turquois

1

: a mineral that is a blue, bluish-green, or greenish-gray hydrous basic phosphate of copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is valued as a gem when sky blue

2

: a light greenish blue

Examples of turquoise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mercedes-Benz got state-level approval for turquoise lights on its Level 3 Drive Pilot cars — even though the automaker has since scrapped the idea in favor of a Level 2++ system. — Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 23 Oct. 2026

The most recognizable one is the turquoise number with a burgundy belt. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026

Wilson accessorized with a few statement jewelry pieces, including turquoise and black rings and dangle earrings for the final touch. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026

He's traded the freshwater lakes of Mississippi for the turquoise waters of the Bahamas, where he's developed a particular fondness for fly fishing. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English turkeys, from Anglo-French turkeise, from feminine of turkeis Turkish, from Turc Turk

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing turquoise

• turquoise blue
• turquoise green

Kids Definition

turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌk(w)ȯiz 

1

: a blue, bluish green, or greenish gray mineral that contains copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is used in jewelry

2

: a light greenish blue

Etymology

Middle English turkeys "turquoise," from early French turkeise (same meaning), derived from turkeis, literally "Turkish (stone)"; so called because it was first brought to Europe from a part of Turkey