onyx

noun

on·​yx ˈä-niks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: a translucent chalcedony in parallel layers of different colors

Examples of onyx in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It was certainly renovated to their particular, ostentatious tastes: Beyond the chandeliers and gold molding, the primary bath is swathed in floor-to-ceiling onyx. Kim Velsey, Curbed, 27 May 2025 Not far from the city-state’s airport sits a six-story facility covered in onyx and fortified by tight security. Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 27 May 2025 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 The Onyx take their name from the rose onyx, the rare local gemstone featured prominently in the construction of Colorado’s capitol. Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for onyx

Word History

Etymology

Middle English oniche, onyx, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin onych-, onyx, from Greek, literally, claw, nail — more at nail

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of onyx was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Onyx.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onyx. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

onyx

noun
on·​yx ˈän-iks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: chalcedony in parallel layers of different color

More from Merriam-Webster on onyx

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