lapis lazuli

noun

la·​pis la·​zu·​li ˌla-pəs-ˈla-zə-lē How to pronounce lapis lazuli (audio)
-ˈla-zhə-
: a semiprecious stone that is usually rich azure blue and is essentially a complex silicate often with spangles of pyrites

called also lapis

Examples of lapis lazuli in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The name comes from lapis lazuli, that gorgeous blue stone that shifts from deep and mysterious to bright and luminous. — Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 22 Jan. 2026 Style with green satin pouch by Prada, Khaite python-strap sandals, and a semiprecious lapis lazuli bracelet for a playful mix of textures. — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 2 July 2026 There are a dozen on offer in various compositions, but a trio were presented at debut with slabs of coral, turquoise, and lapis lazuli as their backdrop. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 12 June 2026 Their designs played on the contrast between an irregular yellow gold element with geometric slices of turquoise, coral or lapis lazuli. — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lapis lazuli

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin lapis + Medieval Latin lazuli, genitive of lazulum lapis lazuli, from Arabic lāzaward — more at azure

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lapis lazuli was in the 15th century

Rhymes for lapis lazuli

See All Rhymes for lapis lazuli

Browse Nearby Words

lapin
lapis lazuli
lapis lazuli blue
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lapis lazuli.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapis%20lazuli. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lapis lazuli

noun
la·​pis la·​zu·​li ˌlap-ə-ˈslazh-ə-lē How to pronounce lapis lazuli (audio)
-ˈslaz-
: a deep blue gemstone

More from Merriam-Webster on lapis lazuli

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lapis lazuli

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