Gem /(?)/
Gem
n.
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A bud. (Bot.)
From the joints of thy prolific stem A swelling knot is raised called a gem.
- A precious stone of any kind, as the ruby, emerald, topaz, sapphire, beryl, spinel, etc., especially when cut and polished for ornament; a jewel.
- 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.
Phrases & Compounds
- Artificial gem
- an imitation of a gem, made of glass colored with metallic oxide. Cf. Paste, and Strass.
Gem
v. t.
imp. & p. p. Gemmed; p. pr. & vb. n. Gemming
- To put forth in the form of buds. [R.]
- To adorn with gems or precious stones.
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To embellish or adorn, as with gems; as, a foliage gemmed with dewdrops.
England is . . . gemmed with castles and palaces.