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 Elsewhere, the most head-turning jewels of the night were vintage: Dua Lipa donned a Tiffany & Co. necklace from 1962, which was fabricated in gold and platinum with luxurious yellow beryl, topaz quartz, and diamonds. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 8 Jan. 2024 Others suggested the ring may be comprised of opal and blue topaz, representing both Kelce and Swift's birth stones. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 16 Dec. 2023 The bling boasts several blue topaz surrounding a large opal, and is reportedly a gift from the musician’s boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, as the two gems happen to be the pair’s respective birthstones. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 19 Dec. 2023 This mini solid gold letter pendant costs under $100 and features a collection of stones — including cordierite, white topaz, green tsavorite, and blue topaz—for a sparkling addition to your loved one’s charm bracelet or necklace. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 6 Dec. 2023 Available in a stunning rusty topaz color, this slouchy and oversized bomber jacket is an excellent option for those who prefer a jacket with a nod to the bomber silhouette while remaining a little more fashion-forward. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 17 Oct. 2023 But there was one difference: Back in 2019, Kate completed her look with a pair of Kiki Mcdonough blue topaz and diamond drop earrings. Stephanie Petit, Peoplemag, 10 May 2023 Her accessories included gold sandals, a shoulder bag covered in silver studs, and a diamond and topaz charm necklace. Quinci Legardye, Harper's BAZAAR, 4 June 2023 It is made up of a solid gold frame set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, topazes and tourmalines. Town & Country, 6 Apr. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'topaz.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near topaz

Cite this Entry

“Topaz.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topaz. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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

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