Langimage
English

faceted

|fac-et-ed|

C1

/ˈfæsɪtɪd/

(facet)

side or aspect

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleComparativeSuperlativeAdjective
facetfacetsfacetsfacetedfacetedfacetingmore facetedmost facetedfaceted
Etymology
Etymology Information

'facet' originates from French, specifically the word 'facette', where 'facette' was a diminutive formed from 'face' and ultimately from Latin 'facies' meaning 'face' or 'appearance'.

Historical Evolution

'facet' entered English in the mid 17th century from French 'facette'; the French term came from Old French 'face', which in turn derived from Latin 'facies'. The English form adapted the French diminutive into the current form 'facet'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a small face' or flat surface (particularly of a cut gem); over time it broadened to include 'an aspect' or side of something in general.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

past tense or past participle form of 'facet'.

They faceted the crystal to improve its brilliance.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

having one or more facets; covered with small flat surfaces, especially used of cut gemstones or polished surfaces.

The faceted diamond sparkled under the light.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

having many aspects or components; complex and multifaceted (figurative use).

The policy is faceted and requires input from several departments.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/05 15:56