semiprecious

adjective

semi·​pre·​cious ˌse-mē-ˈpre-shəs How to pronounce semiprecious (audio)
ˌse-ˌmī-, 
-mi-
of a gemstone
: of less commercial value than a precious stone

Examples of semiprecious in a Sentence

semiprecious stones such as aquamarines and garnets
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.
It was generally made of a precious or semiprecious stone such as lapis lazuli, agate or chalcedony. — Serdar Yalçin, The Conversation, 3 Nov. 2025 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 In the living room, wall panels composed of plaster, wood, and resin are encrusted with plexiglass and semiprecious stones. — Wendy Goodman, Curbed, 26 Aug. 2025 Why shouldn’t there be semiprecious mountains hidden in remote and inaccessible tribal lands? — Nell Zink, New Yorker, 21 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for semiprecious

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of semiprecious was in 1858

Rhymes for semiprecious

See All Rhymes for semiprecious

Browse Nearby Words

semipostal
semiprecious
semiprivacy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Semiprecious.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semiprecious. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

semiprecious

adjective
semi·​pre·​cious ˌsem-i-ˈpresh-əs How to pronounce semiprecious (audio)
ˌsem-ˌī-
: of less value than a precious stone
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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