ambergris

noun

am·​ber·​gris ˈam-bər-ˌgris 

-ˌgrē(s)

: 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 base of oud, vanilla, musk and ambergris gives it a rich, texture that lingers on the skin. — Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025

Ilyas has a whiff of ambergris about him, Hervé of vetiver cologne. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026

Inspired by the strength and history of the French monarchy, Aventus features top notes of pineapple and bergamot with heart notes of birch and patchouli and base notes of ambergris, sandalwood and oakmoss. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 May 2026

That’s why natural materials like orris, jasmines, ouds, and ambergris tend to run pricier, according to Champion. — Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

ambergris

noun

am·​ber·​gris ˈam-bər-ˌgris 

-ˌgrēs

: a waxy substance from the sperm whale that is used to make perfumes

Medical Definition

ambergris

noun

am·​ber·​gris ˈam-bər-ˌgris  -ˌgrē(s) 

: 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