: a usually amorphous mineral that is a hydrated silica softer and less dense than quartz and typically with definite and often marked iridescent play of colors and is used especially as a gem

Examples of opal 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.
For instance, a custom diamond and opal grill famously worn by Kim Kardashian four years ago was said to be worth $18,000, according to Us Weekly. Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 13 Oct. 2025 These included Mirasol, which is named after the El Mirasol villa — one of architect Addison Mizner’s most famous designs — and played with volumes, cabochon cuts and a mix of gold, pink opal and freshwater pearls in a chunky ring, earrings and a standout long necklace. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025 Swift completed the look with a swooping updo and her signature red lip, and accessorized with Le Vian jewelry (including earrings and a diamond-and-opal pendant necklace worth $24,000) and engagement ring. Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025 While Opalite is an artificial product, it's made to look like opal, which is Kelce's birthstone. Lian Brooks, Glamour, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for opal

Word History

Etymology

Latin opalus, from Greek opallios, ultimately from Sanskrit upala stone, jewel

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opal was circa 1586

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Opal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opal. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

opal

noun
: a mineral with changeable colors that is used as a gem

More from Merriam-Webster on opal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!