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

Bessette-Kennedy’s engagement ring, made of round-cut sapphires and diamonds on a platinum band, was a copy of a gold and emerald ring that Jackie wore, according to Carole Radziwill’s memoir What Remains. —Emily Chan, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2026

In stark contrast to her mother-in-law's aesthetic, Carolyn wore a minimalist engagement ring that featured diamonds and sapphires along a platinum eternity band. —Emma Banks, InStyle, 27 Feb. 2026

These sparkly juice glasses are like countertop sapphires. —Francesca Krempa, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026

Rainbow Springs State Park’s sapphire-blue waters well up from the earth with startling clarity, a living force that has drawn people here for thousands of years—from the Timucua who once gathered along its banks to modern-day visitors floating quietly above the headsprings. —Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 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