jewel

The word “jewel” means a precious stone, especially one cut and polished for use in jewellery. In plain terms, a gemstone, or figuratively, anything treasured as rare and valuable.

“Jewel” is pronounced JOO-uhl (/d͡ʒul/ in IPA).

Here is “jewel” used in a sentence: “A single jewel glittered at the centre of the crown.”

“Jewel” is a noun.

The word “jewel” comes from Latin. From an Old French word of uncertain origin, possibly linked to Latin words for "joy" or "joke" — the exact root is debated by historians.

“Jewel” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Jewel” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a precious stone, especially one cut and polished for use in jewellery.

A jewel is typically a single precious stone, especially one cut and polished, while jewelry refers to the finished ornamental items, such as rings or necklaces, that may incorporate jewels along with metal settings. Jewelry is the broader category of wearable adornment.

Yes, jewel is often used figuratively to describe something regarded as especially precious or admirable, beyond literal gemstones. For example, a beloved place or person can be called 'a jewel.'

Jewel and gem are closely related and often used interchangeably to mean a precious stone, though jewel can also carry the extended figurative sense of something highly prized, which gem uses less commonly.