jewel

Definition

A precious or semi-precious stone; gem, gemstone.

Etymology

From Middle English juel, jewel, juwel, jeuel, jowel, from Anglo-Norman juel, from Old French jouel, joel, joïel, hence French joyau, of uncertain origin. Perhaps based ultimately on Latin gaudium (“joy”), or on Latin iocus (“joke; jest”), or according to Pihan, from Arabic جَوْهَر (jawhar). Compare Medieval Latin jocale.

Example Sentences

• "Iachimo: 'Tis plate of rare device, and jewels / Of rich and exquisite form, their values great."
• "Galveston was the jewel of Texas prior to the hurricane."
• "Wel, wel (Meander) thou art deepely read: And hauing thee, I haue a iewell ſure: Go on my Lord, and giue your charge I ſay, Thy wit wil make vs Conquerors to day."