Karat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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karat

[ˈkærət ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

measurement

A unit of measurement for the purity of gold, equal to one twenty-fourth part of an alloy.

Synonyms

carat.

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Word Description / Examples
karat

Use 'karat' when referring to the purity of gold. It is a unit that measures the fineness or quality of gold, where 24-karat gold is considered pure gold.

  • The ring is made of 18-karat gold.
  • She wore a beautiful necklace with 24-karat gold detailing.
carat

Use 'carat' when indicating the weight of gemstones, particularly diamonds. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams.

  • The diamond in her engagement ring is 1.5 carats.
  • He bought her a pair of 2-carat diamond earrings for their anniversary.

Examples of usage

  • The ring was stamped with 24 karat gold.
  • The necklace was made of 18 karat gold.
Context #2 | Noun

diamond weight

A unit of weight for precious stones, especially diamonds, equivalent to 200 milligrams.

Examples of usage

  • The diamond was 2 karats in weight.
  • She bought a ring with a 1 karat diamond.
Context #3 | Noun

purity

A standard for measuring the fineness of gold, with pure gold being 24 karats.

Examples of usage

  • The jewelry was made of 22 karat gold.
  • The bracelet was stamped with 14 karats.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'karat'

The word 'karat' comes from the Arabic 'qirat', which originally meant the weight of a carob seed. Carob seeds were used in ancient times as a standard for weighing precious stones and metals. Over time, the term evolved to refer specifically to the measurement of gold purity and diamond weight. The concept of karats has been used in various cultures and regions throughout history to determine the quality and value of precious materials.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,469 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.