lilac

noun

li·​lac ˈlī-ˌläk  -ˌlak 

-lək

1

a

: a widely cultivated European shrub (Syringa vulgaris) of the olive family that has cordate ovate leaves and large panicles of fragrant pinkish-purple or white flowers

b

: a tree or shrub congeneric with the lilac

2

: a variable color averaging a moderate purple

Illustration of lilac

• lilac 1a

Examples of lilac in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Deciduous Shrubs: Plants like hydrangeas and lilacs are popular in fall because their roots establish during the dormant season, readying them for a robust blooming cycle in the spring. —Tammy Sons, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

Aromas of strawberries, menthol, lemon, lilacs, honey and toast. —Tom Mullen, Forbes, 6 Oct. 2024

Since the pandemic, gardening has become an obsession; she’s planted hydrangeas, lilacs, creeping thyme, a pumpkin patch for Sally. —Christopher Barnard, Vogue, 3 Oct. 2024

Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Large Jar Candle Grab this lavender candle on sale, and use it to unwind with the smell of fresh lilacs. —Isabel Garcia, People.com, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

obsolete French (now lilas), from Arabic līlak, from Persian nīlak bluish, from nīl blue, from Sanskrit nīla dark blue

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

lilac

noun

li·​lac ˈlī-lək  -ˌlak 

-ˌläk

1

: any of a genus of shrubs and trees related to the olive

especially : a European shrub widely grown for its showy clusters of fragrant pink, purple, or white flowers

2

: a medium purple