All words
word

amethyst

AM-eh-thist

ˈæmɪθɪst

Listen

Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.

Syllable breakdown

amethyst

Dictionary meaning

A violet or purple variety of quartz; one of the most popular gemstones in jewelry.

History and origin

Greek — 'amethystos' (not intoxicated), from 'a-' (not) + 'methy' (wine) — it was believed to prevent drunkenness.

Examples

  • She wore a ring set with a deep purple amethyst surrounded by small diamonds.

Common mispronunciations

AM-eh-thistam-EH-thist

Learn one new pronunciation a day

Get a word, name or idiom like “amethyst” in your inbox — daily or weekly, free. Unsubscribe any time.

Something wrong? Suggest a correction