Ebony Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ebony
[ˈɛbəni ]
Definitions
type of wood
A dense black hardwood, most commonly yielded by several species in the genus Diospyros.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ebony |
Often used to describe a deep, rich black color, typically in relation to materials like wood, hair, or skin.
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| blackwood |
Usually refers to certain types of dark, dense wood that are used in fine furniture and musical instruments.
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| ebon |
An archaic or poetic term for describing something that is very dark, often used in literature or poetic expressions.
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Examples of usage
- Her antique desk was made of ebony wood.
- The piano keys were crafted from ebony.
color
A deep, lustrous black color.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ebony |
Typically used to describe very dark black color or luxurious, high-quality, dark wood.
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| jet |
Often used to describe a sleek, shiny black color, sometimes with a polished or metallic finish.
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| sable |
Commonly used in literary or poetic contexts to describe something that is rich, dark, and luxurious, often fur or fabric. Also, occasionally used to indicate a very dark color.
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Examples of usage
- The night sky was ebony, dotted with twinkling stars.
- Her hair shone in the ebony light.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many African cultures, ebony wood holds sacred value and is used in rituals and traditional crafts.
- Ebony is often associated with strength and elegance, frequently featured in artworks and sculptures.
- Throughout history, it has been a symbol of protection and is thought to bring good fortune in some cultures.
Applications
- This wood is favored in the making of musical instruments, especially pianos and fingerboards for guitars, due to its density and smooth finish.
- Jewelry makers also use ebony for creating striking pieces because of its unique color and durability.
- Woodworkers admire it for fine furniture and decorative items, appreciated for aesthetic quality.
Environmental Considerations
- Some species of ebony are considered endangered due to overharvesting, leading to conservation efforts across the globe.
- Sustainable alternatives are being developed to reduce dependence on natural ebony, promoting responsible sourcing.
- Awareness around the ecological impact of harvesting has influenced many artisans to seek ethically sourced materials.
Art and Literature
- Ebony wood has inspired various literary works, symbolizing themes of luxury, darkness, and mystery.
- Famous artworks made from ebony include intricate carvings and furniture pieces that showcase craftsmanship.
- In contrast to lighter woods, its appearances in stories often reflect a sense of depth, complexity, and intrigue.
Origin of 'ebony'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ebony' comes from the Latin word 'eburneus,' meaning 'of ivory,' because early users compared its dark color to the lightness of ivory.
- Its usage dates back to around the 14th century in English literature, originally referring to a type of tree from the genus Diospyros.
- The term has also been linked to the Ancient Egyptian word for the wood, showcasing its historical significance.
The term 'ebony' originated from the Ancient Egyptian word 'hbny', which referred to the dark wood. Ebony has been prized for its beauty and durability throughout history, used in furniture, musical instruments, and decorative arts. It holds a rich cultural significance in various regions of the world, symbolizing luxury and elegance.
See also: ebon.