syringa

[ suh-ring-guh ]

noun

1. mock orange ( def 1 ).
2. any shrub or tree of the genus Syringa, including the lilacs.

syringa

/ sɪˈrɪŋɡə /

noun

1. See lilac, mock orange
   another name for mock orange lilac

Word History and Origins

Origin of syringa¹

1655–65; < New Latin < Greek sȳring- (stem of sŷrinx syrinx ) + New Latin -a -a ²; name first given to mock orange, the stems of which were used in pipe-making

Word History and Origins

Origin of syringa¹

C17: from New Latin, from Greek surinx tube, alluding to the use of its hollow stems for pipes

Example Sentences

I could not do without a syringa, for the sake of Cowper's line.

From Project Gutenberg

A syringa was planted in front, and a broom-tree on the right united it with the willow; in the middle there was a deal table.

From Project Gutenberg

He hastened beyond a thicket of syringa; then, leaning against a tree, he opened the paper again.

From Project Gutenberg

On the dinner-table with blue and white china, and in June combined with Syringa, they make a beautiful and unusual decoration.

From Project Gutenberg

For an instant the syringa blossoms loaded the air with fragrance as a dream of summer floated by.

From Project Gutenberg