topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz How to pronounce topaz (audio)
1
a
: a mineral that is essentially a silicate of aluminum and usually occurs in orthorhombic translucent or transparent crystals or in white translucent masses
b
: a usually yellow to brownish-yellow transparent mineral topaz used as a gem
c
: a yellow sapphire
d
: a yellow quartz
2
: either of two large brilliantly colored South American hummingbirds (Topaza pella and T. pyra)

Examples of topaz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her middle finger is a collision of colors, with a subtle navy tip blending into a topaz yellow, ending with a magenta-and-black fusion. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 21 Nov. 2024 Blue topaz is a traditional fourth wedding anniversary gift, while Imperial topaz is for the twenty-third wedding anniversary, the Geological Institute of America reports. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024 Many of the highlights are from Brazil, but there are also topaz pieces from Pakistan, Namibia, Russia and Texas. —Tasha Tsiaperas, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024 Topaz The rich orange-yellow hue of topaz seems fitting for a late fall birthday. —Aemilia Madden, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for topaz 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English topace, from Anglo-French, from Latin topazus, from Greek topazos

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of topaz was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing topaz

Dictionary Entries Near topaz

topato

topaz

topazine

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Topaz.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topaz. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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Kids Definition

topaz

noun
to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz How to pronounce topaz (audio)
: a mineral in the form of usually yellow to brownish yellow crystals that is valued as a gem

More from Merriam-Webster on topaz

Nglish: Translation of topaz for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of topaz for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about topaz

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