myrtle

noun

myr·​tle ˈmər-tᵊl 

often attributive

1

a

: a common evergreen bushy shrub (Myrtus communis of the family Myrtaceae, the myrtle family) of southern Europe with oval to lance-shaped shiny leaves, fragrant white or rosy flowers, and black berries

b

: any of the chiefly tropical shrubs or trees comprising the myrtle family

2

a

: periwinkle entry 1 sense 1a

b

: california laurel

Illustration of myrtle

• myrtle 1a

Examples of myrtle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Guests dot-paint river rocks while learning about the history of Aboriginal art, or sip lemon myrtle tea while listening to Dale share the six Noongar seasons and the medicinal qualities of native herbs. —Riley Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Oct. 2024

Oil, myrtle, gin and honey are also part of Culuccia’s production, and its oysters are recognized for their superior taste and quality. —Luisa Zargani, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

Ornamental grasses and succulents like aloe vera and agave bring texture and water efficiency, and Mediterranean shrubs such as myrtle, thyme, and sage offer resilience and aromatic charm. —Christine Chitnis, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Aug. 2024

The menu here is inspired by native ingredients like quandong, myrtle, and saltbush, with options for lunch and dinner. —Justin Meneguzzi, Travel + Leisure, 16 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English mirtille, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin myrtillus, from Latin myrtus, from Greek myrtos

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing myrtle

• crape myrtle
• crepe myrtle
• crêpe myrtle
• sand myrtle
• wax myrtle

Kids Definition

myrtle

noun

myr·​tle ˈmərt-ᵊl 

1

: a common evergreen shrub of southern Europe with leaves, fragrant white or rosy flowers, and black berries

2

a

: any of the family of chiefly tropical shrubs or trees (as eucalyptus or guava) to which the common myrtle belongs

b

: periwinkle entry 1