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

The British supermodel wears a new version of the brand’s Confetti necklace featuring diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires in shades of blue, pink and yellow. —Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2025

Harrison also showed Fox News Digital a Boston Red Sox World Series ring in 14K white gold, with 21 rubies and 22 blue sapphires. —Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2025

Each comes with a sapphire crystal exhibition caseback engraved with the artists signatures. —Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2025

The display is covered by sapphire crystal glass, and gets up to 1,500 nits of brightness. —Ben Sin, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025

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