turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌkȯiz  -ˌkwȯiz 

variants or less commonly turquois

1

: a mineral that is a blue, bluish-green, or greenish-gray hydrous basic phosphate of copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is valued as a gem when sky blue

2

: a light greenish blue

Examples of turquoise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For exploration further into the turquoise waters, the property’s jetty can act as a launch point for private yacht charters to secluded beaches, day trips to other islands, a kite surfing adventure, and more. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 24 June 2026

Renowned for its stunning beaches and turquoise seas, Crimea has been a regular hot spot for tourists from mainland Russia, but the worsening crisis will likely derail the industry this year. — Yuliya Talmazan, NBC news, 23 June 2026

From lush turquoise to romantic wisteria. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 22 June 2026

For decades, the Maldives has reigned as one of the world’s most coveted vacation destinations—especially among couples—beloved for its overwater bungalows, clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and soft, sugar-sand beaches. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English turkeys, from Anglo-French turkeise, from feminine of turkeis Turkish, from Turc Turk

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing turquoise

• turquoise blue
• turquoise green

Kids Definition

turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌk(w)ȯiz 

1

: a blue, bluish green, or greenish gray mineral that contains copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is used in jewelry

2

: a light greenish blue

Etymology

Middle English turkeys "turquoise," from early French turkeise (same meaning), derived from turkeis, literally "Turkish (stone)"; so called because it was first brought to Europe from a part of Turkey