onyx

noun

on·​yx ˈä-niks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: a translucent chalcedony in parallel layers of different colors

Examples of onyx 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 redesign features limestone, natural stone, wood and onyx, along with a glass facade inspired by the Pacific Ocean. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 26 Oct. 2026 Ganzorigt shaped Bieber's nails into her preferred medium-length almond, then applied a few coats of the onyx hue for tons of depth and reflective, almost latex-like shine. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 20 Oct. 2026 Jenner wore the label’s Panthère de Cartier earrings and ring, the dazzling pieces made of 18-karat white gold, emeralds, onyx, and diamonds. — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 18 Oct. 2026 But to my untrained eye, their onyx-coats are frustratingly indistinguishable from the volcanic terrain. — Jen Murphy, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for onyx

Word History

Etymology

Middle English oniche, onyx, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin onych-, onyx, from Greek, literally, claw, nail — more at nail

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of onyx was in the 14th century

Rhymes for onyx

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Browse Nearby Words

on your mark
onyx
onza
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Cite this Entry

“Onyx.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onyx. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

onyx

noun
on·​yx ˈän-iks How to pronounce onyx (audio)
: chalcedony in parallel layers of different color

More from Merriam-Webster on onyx

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about onyx

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