# lilac

/ˈɫaɪˌɫæk/ (US) · /lˈaɪlək/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lilac
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a bush with purple or white flowers that have a very sweet smell. It also describes a pale purple color.

For teachers: a deciduous shrub of the olive family, Syringa vulgaris, bearing large clusters of fragrant purple or white flowers. Also refers to a pale violet or light purple hue.

## Examples

- The garden smells wonderful when the lilac is in bloom.
- She decided to paint the guest bedroom a soft lilac to create a more relaxing atmosphere.
- The heavy scent of blooming lilac drifted through the open window, signaling the definitive arrival of spring after a particularly harsh and colorless winter.

## Usage notes

- Countable when referring to the plant or specific varieties; uncountable when referring to the color.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.