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

Last but not least, the spring version, showcasing white gold architecture, a chrysoprase dial, lepidolite counters, and purple sapphires, sold for $9 million. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 29 Sep. 2026

The artist accessorized with diamond rings, including a double mesh gold diamond ring and a bubble white gold ring with sapphires and diamonds by Fope. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026

The Ultra 3 is already a practically bulletproof smartwatch with a titanium body and a sapphire crystal display, tested to MIL-STD-810H standards. — Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026

The company specifies a Mohs hardness of 9, placing sapphire just below diamond on the Mohs scale. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 17 Sep. 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