crystal
The term evokes a sense of purity, precision, and fragility. When describing a physical object, it suggests a geometric perfection and a light-catching brilliance that distinguishes it from ordinary glass or stone. In a descriptive sense, it signifies absolute clarity. Using it to describe a voice or a vision implies a lack of distortion or ambiguity, suggesting a state of perfect transparency where nothing is hidden or blurred.
Countable when referring to a single geometric mineral specimen. Uncountable when referring to the glass material used for luxury tableware.
Meanings
A solid material whose constituents are arranged in a highly ordered microscopic structure.
"The geologist found a perfect crystal of quartz."
High quality glass used for making ornaments or glassware.
"She poured the wine into a crystal glass."
Clear and transparent, often used to describe water or sound.
"The mountain stream was crystal clear."
Examples
The geologist found a perfect crystal of quartz.
She poured the wine into a crystal glass.
The mountain stream was crystal clear.