turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌkȯiz  -ˌkwȯiz 

variants or less commonly turquois

1

: a mineral that is a blue, bluish-green, or greenish-gray hydrous basic phosphate of copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is valued as a gem when sky blue

2

: a light greenish blue

Examples of turquoise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some years, bright turquoise and lime green give holiday decor a coastal flair, and, other holiday seasons bring with them blizzard of white, gold, and silver monochromatic holiday decor. —Heather Bien, Southern Living, 19 Nov. 2024

Drawing inspiration from the brand’s signature graphic patterns, the beach club located within the luxe One&Only Royal Mirage resort has been customized with fabrics and decor rendered in a color palette of deep blue, ocean turquoise and vibrant emerald green accents. —Sandra Salibian, WWD, 28 Oct. 2024

The South African singer's eyes were tightly lined in black liner with lush but subtle lashes, letting the opaque turquoise on her lids really stand out. —Marci Robin, Allure, 29 Oct. 2024

For instance, Butler has a penchant for analogous combinations that include green, yellow, and turquoise. —Shelby Deering, Architectural Digest, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English turkeys, from Anglo-French turkeise, from feminine of turkeis Turkish, from Turc Turk

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing turquoise

• turquoise blue
• turquoise green

Kids Definition

turquoise

noun

tur·​quoise ˈtər-ˌk(w)ȯiz 

1

: a blue, bluish green, or greenish gray mineral that contains copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is used in jewelry

2

: a light greenish blue

Etymology

Middle English turkeys "turquoise," from early French turkeise (same meaning), derived from turkeis, literally "Turkish (stone)"; so called because it was first brought to Europe from a part of Turkey