ruby

1 of 2

noun

ru·​by ˈrü-bē How to pronounce ruby (audio)
plural rubies
Synonyms of rubynext
1
a
: a precious stone that is a red corundum
b
: something (such as a watch bearing) made of ruby
2
a
: the dark red color of the ruby
b
: something resembling a ruby in color

ruby

2 of 2

adjective

: of the color ruby

Examples of ruby 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.
Noun
The pink universe combines rubies and pink sapphires. — Richard Mille Contributor, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 The arils are deep ruby-red in color and have a sweet yet slightly tart flavor that many people find refreshing. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 July 2026
Adjective
As two chickens look on, the ruby-red slipper-shoe of a woman (Rosa) steps out the door. — Vulture, 6 Jan. 2023 The ruby-red rectangle houses the wonderful fragrance, and is capped by a gold bar. — Dallas News, 30 Nov. 2022 See All Example Sentences for ruby

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English, from Anglo-French rubi, rubin, from Medieval Latin rubinus, from Latin rubeus reddish; akin to Latin ruber red — more at red

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Phrases Containing ruby

Rhymes for ruby

See All Rhymes for ruby

Browse Nearby Words

rubus
ruby
ruby-and-topaz hummingbird
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ruby.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruby. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

ruby

1 of 2 noun
ru·​by ˈrü-bē How to pronounce ruby (audio)
plural rubies
1
: a precious stone of a deep red color
2
: the dark red color of the ruby

ruby

2 of 2 adjective
: dark red in color

More from Merriam-Webster on ruby

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for ruby

Nglish: Translation of ruby for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ruby

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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