I. ˈbril-yənt adjective
Etymology: French brillant, present participle of briller to shine, from Italian brillare
Date: 1696
1. : very bright : glittering
a brilliant light
2.
a. : striking , distinctive
a brilliant example
b. : distinguished by unusual mental keenness or alertness
Synonyms: see bright
• bril·liant·ly adverb
II. noun
Date: 1690
: a gem (as a diamond) cut in a particular form with numerous facets so as to have special brilliance
[
brilliant, top and side view: 1 table, 2 bezel, 3 girdle, 4 pavilion, 5 culet
]