plural jewels
1
: a valuable stone (such as a ruby or diamond) that has been cut and polished
That diamond is one of world's largest jewels.
2
: a piece of jewelry (such as a necklace or a bracelet) that is made of valuable metal and precious stones
—usually plural
She was dressed in an evening gown and jewels.
3
: someone or something that is highly valued or admired
This painting is the jewel in our gallery.
She's a jewel.
The building is regarded as one of the jewels of modern architecture.
He owns several successful businesses but this company is the jewel in the crown. [=this company is the most valuable/important/admired]
4
: the part of a watch that is made of a crystal or a precious stone
Cite this Entry
“Jewel.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/jewel. Accessed 6 May. 2026.
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