diamante
UK[ˌdiːəˈmænteɪ]US[ˌdiːəˈmɑːnteɪ]
n
a small, shiny decorative object, often made of glass or plastic, used on clothing or accessories
n
a fabric or item decorated with many such shiny objects
Morpheme Breakdown
dia
mante
dia
through, across
mante
gem, stone
Etymology
the word diamante entered english from the italian language, where it originally meant "diamond" or "adorned with diamonds". its italian form is a descendant of the latin 'diamas, diamant-', which itself was borrowed from the ancient greek 'adamas', meaning "unconquerable, invincible". this greek term was used metaphorically for the hardest substance known, the diamond. the modern english meaning shifted from referring to genuine diamonds to denoting sparkling, diamond-like ornaments or sequins used for decoration, reflecting a move from the literal, valuable object to its imitative, decorative function.
Analysis
Structure: dia (through, across) + mante (gem, stone)
dia- is a prefix of greek origin meaning "through, across, apart". -mante is derived from the latin word 'mante', a form related to 'gemma' meaning "gem, precious stone".
Examples
her evening gown was elegantly embellished with silver diamante.
the craft store sells sheets of adhesive diamante for diy projects.
the stage costumes glittered under the lights thanks to thousands of sewn-on diamantes.