jade

play

noun \ˈjād\

Definition of jade

1 : either of two tough compact typically green gemstones that take a high polish:a : jadeiteb : nephrite
2 : a sculpture or artifact of jade
3 : jade green

Did You Know?

The English word jade that means “to weary” is not related to the name of the green stone jade. The origin of the earlier jade is uncertain. It was first used in Middle English to mean “a broken-down horse.” Later the word for a worthless horse was often applied to a woman (or, very rarely, to a man) considered worthless. Now a jade is more often a disreputable woman than a broken-down horse. Jaded, meaning “worn out,” is also derived from the equine jade. Originally, to jade a horse was to make a jade of it, to wear it out or break it down by overwork or abuse. It was not long before people, too, could be called jaded.

Origin and Etymology of jade

French, from obsolete Spanish (piedra de la) ijada, literally, loin stone, ultimately from Latin ilia, plural, flanks; from the belief that jade cures renal colic

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: circa 1741

See Words from the same year

jade

verb

Definition of jade

jaded

;

jading

intransitive verb
: to become weary or dulled
transitive verb
1a : to wear out by overwork or abuseb : to tire or dull through repetition or excess
2 obsolete : to make ridiculous

Examples of jade in a Sentence

a steady diet of nothing but lobster would jade the palate of even the most ardent lobster lover

First Known Use of jade

1524

Synonym Discussion of jade

tire, weary, fatigue, exhaust, jade mean to make or become unable or unwilling to continue. tire implies a draining of one's strength or patience. the long ride tired us out weary stresses tiring until one is unable to endure more of the same thing. wearied of the constant arguing fatigue suggests great lassitude from excessive strain or undue effort. fatigued by the day's chores exhaust implies complete draining of strength by hard exertion. shoveling snow exhausted him jade suggests the loss of all freshness and eagerness. appetites jaded by overindulgence