sapphire

noun

sap·​phire ˈsa-ˌfī(-ə)r 

1

a

: a gem variety of corundum in transparent or translucent crystals of a color other than red

especially : one of a transparent rich blue

b

: a gem of such corundum

2

: a deep purplish-blue color

sapphire adjective

Examples of sapphire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

At the event—which marked the couple’s first joint appearance since their July 2026 trip to the UK—Meghan donned a one-shoulder black gown and a pair of diamond and sapphire earrings that once belonged to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 12 Aug. 2026

The earrings are part of a modular set made of gold, diamonds, and sapphires, like many pieces in the royal collection. — Valentine Ulgu-Servant, Vanity Fair, 10 Aug. 2026

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2’s screen is protected under a sapphire crystal glass coating, and the case is made of shock-resistant titanium. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026

For the occasion, Meghan, 45, wore the late Princess Diana’s diamond and sapphire earrings. — Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 8 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English safir, from Anglo-French, from Latin sapphirus, from Greek sappheiros, perhaps of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew sappīr sapphire

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing sapphire

• star sapphire
• water sapphire

Kids Definition

sapphire

noun

sap·​phire ˈsaf-ˌī(ə)r 

1

: a clear bright blue precious stone

2

: a deep purplish blue

sapphire adjective

Etymology

Middle English safir "sapphire," from early French safir (same meaning), from Latin sapphirus "sapphire," from Greek sappheiros (same meaning), perhaps of Semitic origin