The word "faceted" is spelled with a hard "c" sound, despite it being followed by an "e." This is because the "c" is followed by a vowel sound, specifically the "e" sound represented by /ɛ/. The "e" at the end of the word is silent and is used to indicate that the preceding "c" should be pronounced as a hard "c." "Faceted" describes an object that has multiple flat surfaces or angles, as in a faceted gemstone or a faceted building design.
Faceted is an adjective that describes an object or surface that has flat, polished, and angled planes or surfaces. These planes, called facets, are formed by cutting or grinding the original material, typically gemstones or crystals, in a way that refracts and reflects light in different directions. The facets are usually geometrically shaped, such as triangles or rectangles, and are evenly distributed across the object or surface.
This term is commonly used in the context of precious gemstones, where it refers to the cutting and shaping process. Faceted gemstones are highly valued for their beauty and brilliance, as the carefully placed planes enhance their ability to reflect light and create sparkle. The number, size, and arrangement of facets can greatly influence the appearance and brilliance of a gemstone.
However, faceted can also be used more broadly to describe any object or surface that has multiple flat or angled sides. For example, a faceted crystal glass or a faceted mirror may have cut surfaces that create a stunning visual effect. In addition to gemstones and decorative objects, faceted surfaces can also be found in architectural designs, as seen in some contemporary buildings where faceted façades are used to create a unique and visually striking appearance.
Overall, faceted refers to the specific shape or structure of an object or surface that has flat, polished planes or facets, often intended to enhance light reflection and create a visually appealing effect.
Having numerous small surfaces or faces, as cut gems.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "faceted" is derived from the noun "facet", which comes from the Latin word "facēs". In Latin, "facēs" means "face" or "surface". The English word "facet" originally referred to the small polished surfaces or faces on a cut gemstone. Over time, its meaning expanded to also encompass any flat or slightly rounded surface on an object. Consequently, the adjective "faceted" in English pertains to something that has multiple facets or flat surfaces.