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Definition of opal

opal

/ˈoʊ.pəl/
o · pal
Plural:opals
•
Adjective:opaline
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opal Lexical Profile

opal Game Scores & Validity

• 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

opacity
opaekaa
opah
opal
opalescent
opaleye
opaque

Word Origin & Etymology

From Latin 'opalus' and Ancient Greek 'opallios', likely tracing back to the Sanskrit word 'upala', meaning 'jewel' or 'precious stone'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Opal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/opal
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