amethyst
noun
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Gems were once believed to have magical qualities. An amethyst, for example, was supposed to have the power to prevent or cure drunkenness in its wearer. For this reason the Greeks gave it the name amethystos, which comes from the prefix a-, meaning “not,” and methyein “to be drunk.”
Examples of amethyst in a Sentence
Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
The model — and elder sister of Gigi and Bella —became engaged at 41, and rather than a diamond, her partner proposed with a vintage amethyst.
—Hannah Malach, WWD, 11 Dec. 2024
One of the necklaces found inside a man’s tomb is made of amethyst and agate beads surrounding a hippo head amulet.
—Brie Stimson, Fox News, 3 Nov. 2024
The origin of the amethyst and diamond-encrusted necklace dates back to the 1920s, when court jeweler Garrard created it.
—Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 5 Nov. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Amethyst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amethyst. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.
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amethyst
noun
Middle English amatiste "amethyst," from early French amatiste and Latin amethystus (both with the same meaning), from Greek amethystos, literally "remedy against drunkenness," from a- "not" and methyein "to be drunk," from methy "wine"
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