Jewelry

ˈdʒuːəlri

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonGeneral
1 meaning2 idioms/phrases3 questions

Definitions

1

Personal ornaments, such as necklaces, rings, or bracelets, typically made from precious metals and gems.

ˈdʒuːəlri

nounneutralBeginner
General

Ornaments worn for personal adornment.

The antique jewelry was passed down through generations.

💡 Simply: Jewelry is like fancy dress-up for grown-ups! It’s all the shiny necklaces, bracelets, and rings people wear to look pretty or to show off. Imagine you're getting ready for a party, you’d pick out some jewelry to make your outfit extra special.

👶 For kids: Jewelry is pretty stuff that people wear, like necklaces and bracelets!

More Examples

2

She received a stunning piece of jewelry for her birthday.

3

The thief stole expensive jewelry from the safe.

How It's Used

Fashion

"She selected a delicate necklace from her jewelry collection to complement her evening gown."

Retail

"The store specializes in selling high-end jewelry, including diamond rings and gold bracelets."

Idioms & expressions

costume jewelry

Jewelry made from inexpensive materials, often designed to imitate fine jewelry.

"She wore costume jewelry to the party so she wouldn't worry about losing a valuable piece."

fine jewelry

Jewelry made from precious metals and gems, of high quality and value.

"The store specializes in fine jewelry, with diamonds and gemstones."

From Old French *joielerie* (jewel, trinket), derived from *joiel* (jewel), ultimately from Latin *jocale* (plaything).

The term jewelry has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving from French and Latin roots related to playthings and valuable items.

Memory tip

Think of the sparkling items you wear to make you look beautiful.

Word Origin

LanguageOld French
Original meaning

"jewel, trinket"

Base: jewel
fine jewelrycostume jewelryantique jewelryexpensive jewelrygold jewelrysilver jewelry

Common misspellings

jewleryjewlryjewelery

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written