myrrh

noun

ˈmər 

: a yellowish-brown to reddish-brown aromatic gum resin with a bitter slightly pungent taste obtained from a tree (especially Commiphora myrrha of the family Burseraceae) of eastern Africa and Arabia

also : a mixture of myrrh and labdanum

Examples of myrrh in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The tablets, which are currently being advertised up to 60 percent off on Truth Social, include, among other biblical ingredients, frankincense and myrrh. —David Gilbert, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2024

The parfum opens with a textured leather accord, has a heart of patchouli essence and myrrh absolute, and a base of warm cedarwood and fruity davana essences. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

It had already been identified through DNA sequencing as belonging to the genus Commiphora Jacq, a genus of myrrh. —David Isaac, Sun Sentinel, 26 Sep. 2024

Chervil has an earthy, resinous fragrance that has been compared to myrrh with a delicate licorice flavor. —Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 14 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English myrre, from Old English, from Latin myrrha, from Greek, of Semitic origin; akin to Arabic murr myrrh

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

myrrh

noun

ˈmər 

: a brown slightly bitter gum obtained from African and Arabian trees and used especially in perfumes or formerly in incense

Medical Definition

myrrh

noun

ˈmər 

: a yellowish to reddish brown aromatic bitter gum resin that is obtained from various trees (genus Commiphora) especially of East Africa and Arabia (as C. myrrha or C. abyssinica) and has been used in the manufacture of dentifrices and as a carminative and a stimulating tonic compare bdellium