hazel

1 of 2

noun

ha·​zel ˈhā-zəl 

1

: any of a genus (Corylus and especially the American C. americana and the European C. avellana) of shrubs or small trees of the birch family bearing nuts enclosed in a leafy involucre

2

: a light brown to strong yellowish brown

hazel

2 of 2

adjective

1

: consisting of hazels or of the wood of the hazel

2

a

: of the color hazel

b

of eyes : of a variable color averaging light greenish-grayish brown

Examples of hazel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Opt for similar color palettes, like hazel, mauve, and bronze tones across the lids and cheeks. —Beatrice Zocchi, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2024

This artificial potted plant features natural-looking faux hazel branches arranged together and comes potted inside a ceramic urn to complete the look. —Jen Cason, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Sep. 2024

Adjective

The Oak Eye Kentucky bourbon whiskey, apple pie moonshine, and hazel nut liquor–a extra special treat with Graeter’s vanilla ice cream (another Cincy delicacy)–make a visit worthwhile. —Chadd Scott, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024

Police described her as a white female, with brown hair and hazel eyes. —Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 5 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English hasel, from Old English hæsel; akin to Old High German hasal hazel, Latin corulus

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hazel

• hazel dormouse
• hazel hen
• hazel mouse
• witch hazel

Kids Definition

hazel

noun

ha·​zel

ˈhā-zəl

1

: any of a genus of shrubs or small trees related to birches and bearing edible nuts enclosed in a leafy case

2

: a light brown to a strong yellowish brown

hazel adjective