Diamond

Definition

Diamond is a noun that refers to a precious gemstone composed of crystallized carbon, known for its hardness and brilliance. It can also refer to a shape with four equal sides forming two acute and two obtuse angles, or to a suit in a deck of cards represented by a red diamond symbol.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdaɪ(ə)mənd/
• Respelling: DY-muhnd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdaɪəmənd/
• Respelling: DY-uh-muhnd

Etymology

The word "diamond" originates from the Old French "diamant," derived from the Latin "adamas," meaning "invincible" or "unbreakable." This term, rooted in the Greek "adamas," was used to describe the gemstone's extraordinary hardness.

Derivatives

• Diamondlike (adjective)
• Diamonds (plural noun)
• Diamond-cut (adjective)
• Diamondback (noun)
• Diamond-studded (adjective)

Synonyms

• Gem
• Jewel
• Stone

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "diamond" is widely used to refer to the precious gemstone, as in "The ring features a large diamond." It also appears in contexts describing shapes, such as "The tiles were arranged in a diamond pattern," and in card games, as in "He played a card from the diamond suit."

Related Terms

• Gemstone: A precious or semi-precious stone used in jewelry.
• Crystallography: The scientific study of crystals and their structures.
• Jewelry: Decorative items made from gemstones and precious metals.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A precious gemstone formed from carbon in a crystalline structure: Known for its extreme hardness and brilliance, often used in jewelry.
  • Example: "The diamond on her necklace sparkled in the light."
• A shape with four equal sides, two acute angles, and two obtuse angles: A geometric form resembling the structure of a diamond gemstone.
  • Example: "The flag featured a blue diamond in the center."
• One of the four suits in a standard deck of playing cards, represented by a red diamond symbol: Used in card games, alongside hearts, clubs, and spades.
  • Example: "He placed the Queen of diamonds on the table."