crystal
UK: ˈkrɪst(ə)l | US: ˈkrɪst(ə)l
n. a solid material with a regular, repeating arrangement of atoms or molecules
n. a clear, high-quality glass or mineral
adj. transparent and colorless, like crystal
crystal = cryst<ice> + al<relating to>
- cryst (from Greek krystallos <ice>): Originally referred to ice or rock crystal, which was believed to be permanently frozen water.
- al (Latin-derived suffix <relating to>): Forms adjectives indicating a relationship or pertaining to something.
Etymology Origin:
The word crystal traces back to Greek krystallos (ice), as ancient Greeks thought clear quartz was ice frozen so deeply it could never melt. Latin adopted it as crystallum, and Old French shaped it into cristal, eventually entering English. The modern sense expanded from "clear mineral" to include any orderly atomic structure.
The cave walls were lined with sparkling crystals.
She wore a necklace made of rose quartz crystal.
The scientist studied the crystal structure of the diamond.
The lake’s surface was as clear as crystal.
He poured water into a crystal glass.