rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryfacetFlat surface
noun

facet

FAS-it/ˈfæsɪt/

A distinct flat surface of a solid object.

Each polished facet of the gemstone reflects light at a different angle.

Cut gemstone with multiple distinct flat polished facets.
Etymology
facLatinappearance, form; countenance
+etFrenchlittle

A facet is literally a “little face,” originally a surface of a cut diamond. That physical image became a figurative way to describe one aspect of a many-sided subject.

In context

TED-Ed2:20
Explore each facet of your subject carefully and make sure to consider multiple influences on events.
Mining literature for deeper meanings - Amy E. Harter

More examples

  • The cutter polishes each facet of the diamond.
  • The crystal has six smooth facets.
  • A small chip mars one facet of the glass paperweight.

Forms

facet · facets

Similar words

face
A broader term for a flat side of a solid.
surface
May be curved or flat, unlike a facet.