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ambergris

noun
am·​ber·​gris | \ ˈam-bÉ™r-ËŒgris How to pronounce ambergris (audio) , -ËŒgrÄ“(s)\

Definition of ambergris

: a waxy substance found floating in or on the shores of tropical waters, believed to originate in the intestines of the sperm whale, and used in perfumery as a fixative

Examples of ambergris in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The cologne, with notes of grapefruit, marine accord, and ambergris, is available now. — Sarah Spellings, The Cut, "Nick Youngquest on the Smell of a Men’s Locker Room and Seaweed," 26 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ambergris.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of ambergris

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for ambergris

Middle English ambregris, from Middle French ambre gris, from ambre + gris gray — more at grizzle

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More Definitions for ambergris

ambergris

noun
am·​ber·​gris | \ ˈam-bÉ™r-ËŒgris How to pronounce ambergris (audio) , -ËŒgrÄ“(s) How to pronounce ambergris (audio) \

Medical Definition of ambergris

: a waxy substance found floating in or on the shores of tropical waters, believed to originate in the intestines of the sperm whale, and used in perfumery as a fixative

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More from Merriam-Webster on ambergris

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with ambergris

Spanish Central: Translation of ambergris

Nglish: Translation of ambergris for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ambergris

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