brilliants
|bril-li-ant|
/ˈbrɪljənts/
(brilliant)
exceptional brightness or talent
Etymology
'brilliant' originates from French, specifically the word 'brillant', where 'briller' meant 'to shine'.
'brillant' entered English in the late 17th century from French (from Old French 'brillier'/'briller' meaning 'to glitter or shine'), and the noun sense for a gem (a 'brilliant' cut) developed later.
Initially it meant 'shining' or 'sparkling' in a literal sense; over time it broadened to mean 'very bright' and then metaphorically 'excellent' or 'very intelligent'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'brilliant' (noun): gemstones, especially diamonds, cut in the brilliant style (many facets to maximize sparkle).
She inherited several brilliants that sparkled in the sunlight.
Synonyms
Noun 2
plural of 'brilliant' (informal noun): very intelligent or exceptionally talented people (plural).
The research team included several brilliants who solved the problem quickly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
this entry is a transformation reference: 'brilliants' is the plural form related to the base adjective 'brilliant', which means 'very bright, shining, or exceptionally good'.
The word 'brilliants' itself usually functions as a noun (plural); for the adjective meaning, see 'brilliant'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/27 01:13