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

Ellen’s most prominent evening dress is indigo with lilacs embroidered and beaded on the front and on the sleeves. —Bill Desowitz, IndieWire, 25 Nov. 2024

An eclectic color palette of dark and edgy colors, brash and bright bold pop colors and girly lilacs live here and are meant to be worn together. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 28 Oct. 2024

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

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