ambergris

am·ber·gris

A a

Definitions of ambergris word

uncountable noun ambergris Ambergris is a waxy substance produced by sperm whales. It is used to make some perfumes. 3
noun ambergris a waxy substance consisting mainly of cholesterol secreted by the intestinal tract of the sperm whale and often found floating in the sea: used in the manufacture of perfumes 3
noun ambergris a grayish, waxy substance from the intestines of sperm whales, often found floating in tropical seas 3
noun ambergris an opaque, ash-colored secretion of the sperm whale intestine, usually found floating on the ocean or cast ashore: used in perfumery. 1
noun ambergris A waxlike substance that originates as a secretion in the intestines of the sperm whale, found floating in tropical seas and used in perfume manufacture. 1
noun ambergris whale excretion 1

before 1375

One of the 22% oldest English words

1375-1425; < Middle French ambre gris gray amber (see amber); replacing late Middle English imbergres

noun

adjective

verb

adverb

pronoun

preposition

conjunction

determiner

exclamation

A common word. It’s meaning is known to most children of preschool age. About 71% of English native speakers know the meaning and use the word.

Most Europeans know this English word. The frequency of it’s usage is somewhere between "mom" and "screwdriver".

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