: a usually amorphous mineral that is a hydrated silica softer and less dense than quartz and typically with definite and often marked iridescent play of colors and is used especially as a gem

Examples of opal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
There is a close chemical connection to an opal, and the general color and the manner of light reflection are much the same. Mark Fischetti, Scientific American, 15 Oct. 2024 October birthstone October has two birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 1 Oct. 2024 Do not use Windex on softer gems like pearls, opals, or emeralds, because the ammonia may damage them. Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2024 Rough opals appear white, but once polished, their surface shines a rainbow kaleidoscope. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 1 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for opal 

Word History

Etymology

Latin opalus, from Greek opallios, ultimately from Sanskrit upala stone, jewel

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opal was circa 1586

Dictionary Entries Near opal

Cite this Entry

“Opal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opal. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

opal

noun
: a mineral with changeable colors that is used as a gem

More from Merriam-Webster on opal

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