: 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
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Use flowering shrubs such as hydrangeas and lilacs, aromatic herbs such as lavender, and plants with interesting foliage to add pizzazz to your arrangements.—Viveka Neveln, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2026 Mix and matching with complimentary colors like bright red and creamy lilac.—Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 15 June 2026 This nine-day celebration has been held annually since 1949 to celebrate the island’s 250-plus varieties of blooming lilacs, the scent of which fills the air during late spring and early summer.—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 13 June 2026 The former Spice Girls star, 52, wore a lilac long-sleeve dress to complement David's navy suit.—Hedy Phillips, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lilac
Word History
Etymology
obsolete French (now lilas), from Arabic līlak, from Persian nīlak bluish, from nīl blue, from Sanskrit nīla dark blue