Definition

1. Noun:
   • A piece of jewelry consisting of a decorative cord, chain, or band, often strung with beads, pearls, or gemstones, that is worn around the neck as an ornament.

Usage

• The word "necklace" is a countable noun. It refers to the specific item of jewelry.
• It is commonly associated with women's fashion but can be worn by anyone.
• It is typically used to describe a complete piece, not its individual components.

Examples

• She received a beautiful pearl necklace for her birthday.
• The diamond necklace was the most expensive item in the jewelry store.
• He admired the intricate design of the gold necklace.

Advanced Usage

• "To wear a necklace": To have a necklace on one's person as adornment.
  • She always wears a silver necklace.
• "A necklace of [something]": Used to describe a necklace made of a specific material or with a specific theme. This is a descriptive phrase, not a compound word.
  • The museum displayed a necklace of ancient amber beads.

Variants and Related Words

• Choker: A short, tight-fitting necklace.
• Pendant: A hanging piece of jewelry that is often attached to a necklace chain.
• Locket: A small pendant that opens to hold a photograph or other keepsake, typically worn on a necklace.
• Beads: Small decorative objects that are often strung together to form a necklace.
• Torc / Torque: A rigid neck ring, often of metal, from ancient cultures.

Synonyms

• Necklet: A less common synonym for a necklace, especially a short or delicate one.
• Chain: Can refer to a necklace that is primarily a metal chain.
• Strand: Often used for a necklace of pearls or beads (e.g., a strand of pearls).

Idioms and Phrases

• "A millstone around one's neck": A heavy burden or responsibility. (Note: This idiom uses "neck" metaphorically and is not directly about the jewelry "necklace," but it is a common neck-related phrase.)
  • The debt became a millstone around his neck.

Noun

1. jewelry consisting of a cord or chain (often bearing gems) worn about the neck as an ornament (especially by women)