lapis lazuli

noun

la·​pis la·​zu·​li ˌla-pəs-ˈla-zə-lē 

-ˈla-zhə-

: a semiprecious stone that is usually rich azure blue and is essentially a complex silicate often with spangles of pyrites

called also lapis

Examples of lapis lazuli in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her high ponytail showed off Carousel Jewels’ lapis lazuli and moonstone earrings, which What Kate Wore noted were a rewear, having first been seen in April 2023. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 3 July 2026

Style with green satin pouch by Prada, Khaite python-strap sandals, and a semiprecious lapis lazuli bracelet for a playful mix of textures. — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 2 July 2026

There are a dozen on offer in various compositions, but a trio were presented at debut with slabs of coral, turquoise, and lapis lazuli as their backdrop. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 12 June 2026

During a visit to the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, a leading cancer center in greater Manchester, the Princess of Wales wore her cobalt blue Eponine London coatdress with a lapis lazuli necklace that has a meaningful connection to the city. — Stephanie Bridger-Linning, Vanity Fair, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin lapis + Medieval Latin lazuli, genitive of lazulum lapis lazuli, from Arabic lāzaward — more at azure

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for lapis lazuli

• bernoulli
• unduly
• unruly
• cooley
• coolly
• cooly
• coulee
• cruelly
• duly
• foully
• hooley
• muley

Kids Definition

lapis lazuli

noun

la·​pis la·​zu·​li ˌlap-ə-ˈslazh-ə-lē 

-ˈslaz-

: a deep blue gemstone