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Attar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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attar

[ˈætər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fragrance oil

Attar is a concentrated perfume oil derived from botanical sources, often flowers, herbs, and spices. It has been used for centuries in various cultures for its aromatic properties. Attar is typically alcohol-free and is known for its long-lasting scent.

Synonyms

fragrance, perfume, scent.

Examples of usage

  • She applied attar on her wrists.
  • The market was filled with the aroma of various attars.
  • Many people prefer attar to synthetic perfumes.
  • He gifted her a bottle of rose attar from his travels.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Middle Eastern culture, 'attar' is traditionally used in religious ceremonies and as a sign of hospitality.
  • Many ancient poets, including Rumi, used the imagery of fragrance in their works, reflecting the spiritual significance of scents.
  • In India, 'attar' is often worn during festivals and celebrations, symbolizing joy and love.

Science

  • The process of making 'attar' often involves steam distillation, which helps to preserve the plant's essential oils.
  • Research shows that certain scents in 'attar' can trigger emotional responses, linking fragrance to memory and feelings.
  • Natural ingredients in 'attar' may have calming properties and can be used in aromatherapy.

History

  • Historical records indicate that 'attar' was popular in ancient Egypt, used in rituals and mummification.
  • During trade routes in the Middle Ages, 'attar' made its way to Europe, opening doors to new aromatic experiences.
  • In the Ottoman Empire, 'attar' was often gifted among royalty, showcasing wealth and sophistication.

Pop Culture

  • 'Attar' has been referenced in various movies and literature as a symbol of romance and allure.
  • Contemporary perfumers often look back at traditional 'attar' methods, merging them with modern fragrance techniques.
  • Songs and poetry from different cultures frequently celebrate the beauty and essence of floral scents, linking back to 'attar' traditions.

Origin of 'attar'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'attar' comes from the Arabic term 'itr', which means fragrance or scent.
  • In Persian, 'attar' refers specifically to perfume created from flowers and herbs.
  • The practice of making 'attar' dates back thousands of years, showcasing its deep-rooted connection to aroma and culture.

The term 'attar' originates from the Arabic word 'attar' (عطر), which refers to a perfume or fragrant substance, specifically those derived from plants. Its use can be traced back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, where it was crafted from natural materials such as flowers, herbs, and spices. The art of making attar has a rich history that spans thousands of years, with references found in early texts of medicine and perfumery. Notably, the production of attar doesn't involve alcohol, making it a preferred choice for many who seek pure and natural fragrances. Over time, attar spread across different cultures, each adding their own unique ingredients and techniques, further amplifying its rich heritage in scent-making.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,126, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.