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

Geometric shapes, gemstone carvings, long earrings, precious gems and bold silhouettes dominate the collection, which features emeralds, diamonds and sapphires. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 8 July 2026

In a move that surprised the queen, Diana chose the largest stone presented, a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire surrounded by a halo of diamonds. — Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 6 July 2026

Eliza decked herself in emeralds, while Amelia modeled a set encrusted with sapphires. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 1 July 2026

Perhaps the finest demonstration of the craftsmanship is found in two articulated bracelets whose polished 18k gold scales remain perfectly smooth despite being set with diamonds or a combination of diamonds and pink sapphires. — Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 1 July 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