lapis lazuli

[ lap-is laz-oo-lee, -lahy, laz-yoo-, lazh-oo- ]

noun

1. a deep-blue mineral composed mainly of lazurite with smaller quantities of other minerals, used mainly as a gem or as a pigment.
2. a sky-blue color; azure.

lapis lazuli

/ ˈlæpɪs /

noun

1. a brilliant blue variety of the mineral lazurite, used as a gemstone
2. the deep blue colour of lapis lazuli

Word History and Origins

Origin of lapis lazuli¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Medieval Latin, equivalent to Latin lapis “stone” + Medieval Latin lazulī, genitive of lazulum “lapis lazuli”; azure

Word History and Origins

Origin of lapis lazuli¹

C14: from Latin lapis stone + Medieval Latin lazulī, from lazulum, from Arabic lāzaward, from Persian lāzhuward, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

It is formed of two pieces joined by a hinge, and is decorated with figures in repouss on a ground inlaid with lapis lazuli.

From Project Gutenberg

To the centre is suspended by a small ring a scarabaeus of solid gold inlaid with lapis lazuli.

From Project Gutenberg

A long lapis lazuli chain with a beautiful pendant and links of exquisite color, and a pair of bracelets to match.

From Project Gutenberg

He was the same man who had brought me the heart of lapis-lazuli, or his double.

From Project Gutenberg

Often I dream of your eyes, blue as lapis lazuli from the Urals.

From Project Gutenberg