lilac

American  

[lahy-luhk, -lahk, -lak] / ˈlaɪ lək, -lɑk, -læk /

noun

1. any of various shrubs belonging to the genus Syringa, of the olive family, as S. vulgaris, having large clusters of fragrant purple or white flowers: the state flower of New Hampshire.

2. pale reddish purple.

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adjective

1. having the color lilac.

lilac British  

/ ˈlaɪlək /

noun

1. Also called: syringa.  any of various Eurasian oleaceous shrubs or small trees of the genus Syringa, esp S. vulgaris ( common lilac ) which has large sprays of purple or white fragrant flowers

2. another name for goat's-rue

3. 1. a light or moderate purple colour, sometimes with a bluish or reddish tinge

   2. ( as adjective )

      a lilac carpet

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Etymology

Origin of lilac

First recorded in 1615–25; from obsolete French, from Spanish, from Arabic līlak, from Persian līlak, assimilated variant of nīlak “bluish,” equivalent to nīl “blue, indigo” (from Sanskrit nīla ) + -ak a suffix indicating relationship or origin

Example Sentences

Infiniti oozed glamour in a lilac sleeveless Louis Vuitton dress with a fitted bodice and a cascade of ruffles tumbling from her hip to the floor, creating a long train.

From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026

Following “the Sydney Cherkov way,” she wears a lilac blouse that telegraphs meek, demure energy.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2025

But we find Olga, already waiting by the roadside, wrapped up in a lilac winter coat and furry hood.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2025

For 20 years, Parton has opened his lilac garden to the public for free every spring, but 2025 will be the last time.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2025

“I bet the Widow Cane could say which of the thirty-seven varieties of lilac it was. I’m sure a bunch would look nice in one of these jars.”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool

Related Words

• color
• lavender
• mauve
• periwinkle
• plum
• violet