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Definition of opal
opal
/ˈoʊ.pəl/
o · pal
Plural:opals
•Adjective:opaline
opal Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
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Scrabble US
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WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
An amorphous, hydrated form of silica that is highly valued as a gemstone, typically exhibiting a shifting play of iridescent colors.
Example
"She inherited a stunning gold pendant featuring a large Australian fire opal."
2
A translucent or opaque glass that is typically milky-white, used especially in light bulbs, lampshades, and decorative items.
Example
"The antique lamp cast a soft, diffused light through its original opal glass shade."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for opal• Rhymes for opal
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin 'opalus' and Ancient Greek 'opallios', likely tracing back to the Sanskrit word 'upala', meaning 'jewel' or 'precious stone'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Opal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/opal