opal
|o-pal|
🇺🇸
/ˈoʊpəl/
🇬🇧
/ˈəʊpəl/
iridescent precious stone
Etymology
'opal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'opalus', where 'opalus' referred to a precious stone.
'opal' changed from Greek 'opallios' and earlier from Sanskrit 'upala'; it passed into Latin as 'opalus', into Old French as 'opale' and then into Middle English as 'opale' before becoming the modern English 'opal'.
Initially, it meant a 'precious stone' in general (from earlier languages); over time it narrowed to denote the specific hydrated silica gemstone known for its play-of-color and, by extension, objects or colors resembling that appearance.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a hydrated silica gemstone that shows a shifting, iridescent play of colors (precious opal).
She wore an opal set in a silver ring that flashed with every color.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a common, generally opaque or translucent form of opal that lacks the play-of-color (also called potch or common opal).
The geologist described the specimen as a piece of common opal rather than a precious one.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
having a milky, iridescent, or pearly sheen resembling that of an opal.
The dawn had an opal sheen that softened the outlines of the hills.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/29 15:09