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Lilac Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lilac

[ˈlaɪlək ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

color

A pale purple color with a pinkish tinge.

Synonyms

lavender, mauve, purple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lilac

Used primarily to describe the light purple color often associated with flowers and springtime aesthetics. It's also the name of a flowering shrub.

  • The garden was filled with the scent of blooming lilac bushes.
  • She wore a lilac dress to the party, which matched beautifully with her shoes.
purple

A broad term for a deep, rich color that can range from red-violet to blue-violet. Commonly used to describe items ranging from clothing to decorations and often has royal or luxurious connotations.

  • The queen's robes were a vibrant purple, symbolizing royalty.
  • They painted the nursery a cheerful shade of purple.
lavender

Commonly refers not only to the soft, pale purple color but also to the aromatic herb known for its soothing qualities. Typically used in contexts involving relaxation and natural beauty.

  • She sprinkled lavender oil on her pillow to help her sleep.
  • The walls of the spa were painted lavender to create a calming atmosphere.
mauve

Describes a pale purple color with a hint of gray. It's a more sophisticated and muted shade often used in fashion and interior design.

  • She chose mauve curtains to give the room an elegant touch.
  • His tie was a subtle mauve that complemented his suit perfectly.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful lilac dress to the party.
  • The lilac flowers were in full bloom in the garden.
Context #2 | Noun

plant

Any of various shrubs belonging to the olive family, with large clusters of fragrant pink, purple, or white flowers.

Synonyms

bush, flowering plant, shrub.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lilac

Use this word when referring specifically to the flowering plant known for its fragrant and colorful blooms, typically in a garden context.

  • The lilac is in full bloom this spring.
  • She loves the scent of lilac in the garden.
shrub

Use 'shrub' to describe a small to medium-sized woody plant, often used in landscaping. This term is typically more formal and may be used in gardening, botany, or landscaping contexts.

  • We planted several shrubs along the driveway for privacy.
  • That shrub needs careful pruning.
bush

This word is suitable for general references to any dense, woody plant, not specifying any plant type. It can be ornamental or wild and not necessarily flowering.

  • The kids were hiding behind the bush.
  • Trim the bush to keep it looking neat.
flowering plant

This term is used when you want to emphasize that the plant is in bloom or capable of producing flowers. It is a more scientific or descriptive term.

  • They have a beautiful collection of flowering plants in their greenhouse.
  • A flowering plant can really brighten up a room.

Examples of usage

  • The lilac bush in their backyard perfumed the air with its sweet scent.
  • She picked a bouquet of lilacs for her mother.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, lilacs are symbols of spring, renewal, and new beginnings, often representing youth.
  • In Victorian England, gifting lilacs signified the first emotions of love and affection.
  • Lilac is also a popular flower in literature, often associated with nostalgia and memory.

Botanical Facts

  • Lilacs belong to the olive family, and their scientific name is Syringa vulgaris.
  • These flowers thrive in temperate climates and are typically found in Europe and North America.
  • Lilacs can grow up to 10 to 15 feet tall and are known for their beautiful clusters of flowers.

Pop Culture

  • Lilacs have appeared in numerous paintings and poems, celebrated for their beauty and scent.
  • The color lilac is often used in fashion and design, symbolizing serenity and grace.
  • In music, the word 'lilac' has been used in song lyrics to invoke feelings of romance and nostalgia.

Health and Nutrition

  • Some cultures use lilac flowers in teas believed to have calming properties.
  • Lavender and lilac essential oils are popular in aromatherapy for relaxation.
  • Flowers from the lilac plant can be used in culinary applications to add floral flavors to dishes.

Origin of 'lilac'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'lilac' comes from the Arabic word 'lilak', which means 'bluish' or 'purple'.
  • In Latin, it was called 'syringa', derived from Greek, referring to the tubes the flowers grow in.
  • Earlier, lilacs were introduced to Europe from Asia in the 16th century.

The word 'lilac' originated from the Persian word 'lilak' which means bluish. It was first introduced to the English language in the 17th century. Lilacs are native to southeastern Europe and are known for their fragrant flowers. They have been cultivated for centuries for their beauty and scent, often symbolizing love and innocence.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,879, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.