GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Gem (?), n. [OE. gemme precious stone, F. gemme, fr. L. gemma a precious stone, bud.]
   1. (Bot.) A bud.
   
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   From the joints of thy prolific stem
   
   A swelling knot is raised called a gem. Denham.
   
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   2. A precious stone of any kind, as the ruby, emerald, topaz, sapphire, beryl, spinel, etc., especially when cut and polished for ornament; a jewel.  Milton.
   
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   3. Anything of small size, or expressed within brief limits, which is regarded as a gem on account of its beauty or value, as a small picture, a verse of poetry, a witty or wise saying.
   
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   Artificial gem, an imitation of a gem, made of glass colored with metallic oxide.  Cf. Paste, and Strass.
   
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2.       
   Gem v. t. [imp. & p. p. Gemmed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Gemming]
   1. To put forth in the form of buds. “Gemmed their blossoms.” [R.]  Milton.
   
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   2. To adorn with gems or precious stones.
   
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   3. To embellish or adorn, as with gems; as, “a foliage gemmed with dewdrops”.
   
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   England is . . . gemmed with castles and palaces. W. Irving.
   
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