lavender

1 of 2

noun

lav·​en·​der ˈla-vən-dər 

1

a

: a Mediterranean mint (Lavandula angustifolia synonym L. officinalis) widely cultivated for its narrow aromatic leaves and spikes of lilac-purple flowers which are dried and used in sachets and from which is extracted an aromatic oil used chiefly in perfumery

b

: any of several plants congeneric with true lavender and used similarly but often considered inferior

2

: a pale purple

lavender

2 of 2

verb

lavendered; lavendering ˈla-vən-d(ə-)riŋ 

transitive verb

: to sprinkle or perfume with lavender

Examples of lavender in a Sentence

Noun

a small cloth bag filled with lavender

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Unlike traditional lavender scents that can feel sharp or medicinal, this one is seamlessly integrated, adding an airy, sophisticated dimension. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 13 Dec. 2024

After the treatments, warm baths are drawn, infused with lavender oils and muscle-slackening bath salts. —Nicole Trilivas, Travel + Leisure, 8 Dec. 2024

Verb

Each order includes six scents: lavender, tea tree, lemon basil, coconut, honey almond, and eucalyptus spearmint. —Rebecca Martinson, Rolling Stone, 12 Dec. 2024

This clove, lavender, and cedarwood blend is an especially soothing scent that will elevate any self-care night. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English lavendre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin lavandula

First Known Use

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1820, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lavender

• sea lavender
• spike lavender

Kids Definition

lavender

noun

lav·​en·​der

ˈlav-ən-dər

1

a

: a Mediterranean mint widely cultivated for its narrow somewhat woolly leaves and stalks of small sweet-smelling pale violet flowers compare sea lavender

b

: the dried leaves and flowers of lavender used to perfume clothes and bed linen

2

: a pale purple