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

While the queen wore a voluminous gown paired with sapphires and diamonds, Kennedy wore a sleek ensemble. — Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026

Queen Camilla added Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets in agate and carnelian and pinned Queen Victoria’s sapphire-and-diamond wedding brooch near her left shoulder. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 20 June 2026

The clinic uses synthetic sapphire blades to open recipient channels — a method now widespread in Turkey but still associated closely with this practice. — Ascend Agency, Denver Post, 18 June 2026

Each large stone is surrounded by clusters of green beryls, aquamarines, tourmalines, sapphires, diamonds, paraibas, and tsavorites (green garnet). — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 16 June 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