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

Ishigaki is renowned for its pristine beaches, sapphire ocean and Wagyu beef. —Wayne Chang, CNN Money, 3 June 2026

Flip it over, and the sapphire gives a full view of the in-house automatic movement (HMC 500) with contemporary Moser finishing. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 31 May 2026

Before Princess Diana’s—and now Kate Middleton’s—sapphire and diamond engagement ring became iconic, Anne’s engagement ring featured a central blue sapphire flanked by a diamond on either side. —Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 31 May 2026

Born in India, the bride explained to me that in Vedic astrology, also known as Hindu or Indian astrology, the sapphire is considered both the most powerful gemstone—and the riskiest. —Jessica Scemama, Vogue, 28 May 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