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

Transformed in pink and blue sapphires, bracelets and rings from Victoire de Castellane’s Bois de Rose fine jewelry line have been created for the flagship, and the Chiffre Rouge timepiece has been reimagined for the flagship with a rose gold bezel and bumper. —David Moin, Footwear News, 4 Aug. 2025

The stainless steel case is 42 mm across and 11.5 mm thick, there’s a sapphire crystal over the dial, and 50 meters of water resistance. —Andy Boxall, Wired News, 29 July 2025

Anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the dial, while a solid titanium case back completes the lightweight yet robust construction. —Matthew Catellier, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025

The Sovereign’s Orb, a globe topped with a cross and mounted with emeralds, rubies, and sapphires surrounded by diamonds and pearls, is held in the monarch's right hand during the ceremony. —Madison Dapcevich, Discover Magazine, 30 June 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