A finely cut gemstone, especially a diamond, cut in a particular form with numerous facets so as to maximize light return through the top (called "table") of the stone.
"The jeweler selected a brilliant-cut diamond for the engagement ring because its many facets made it sparkle intensely under the chandelier."
In plain English: A brilliant is a person who is extremely talented and smart.
"The brilliant of that era changed the course of history with their groundbreaking ideas."
Usage: Use "brilliant" as a noun specifically to refer to a diamond or other gemstone cut with many facets to enhance its sparkle. This term describes the physical object itself rather than using it as an adjective to praise someone's intelligence or success.
having or marked by unusual and impressive intelligence
"our project needs brainy women"
"a brilliant mind"
"a brilliant solution to the problem"
characterized by grandeur
"the brilliant court life at Versailles"
"a glorious work of art"
"magnificent cathedrals"
"the splendid coronation ceremony"
Shining brightly.
"The brilliant sun blinded us as we stepped outside on a clear morning."
In plain English: Brilliant means extremely smart or talented.
"The brilliant sun shone brightly through the blue sky."
Usage: Use brilliant to describe something that emits intense light or shines with exceptional clarity. Avoid using it as a general synonym for smart or excellent, which are more common in modern casual speech.
The word brilliant entered English in the late 17th century as a borrowing from French. It originally referred to the sparkling quality of gems like beryl before coming to describe anything shining with exceptional intensity.