Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

Amyris

noun
Am·y·ris | \ˈamərə̇s\

Definition of Amyris 

: a genus of tropical American trees and shrubs (family Rutaceae) with compound leaves and white flowers

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

First Known Use of Amyris

1764, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for Amyris

New Latin, probably irregular from Greek amyros not watery, probably from a- (akin to hama together) + myron sweet oil, unguent; from the oily quality of the plant

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about Amyris

Dictionary Entries near Amyris

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyraldism

amyrin

Amyris

amyris oil

amyroot

Amytal

Statistics for Amyris

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for Amyris

The first known use of Amyris was in 1764

See more words from the same year

Comments on Amyris

What made you want to look up Amyris? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Show Comments  Hide Comments 

WORD OF THE DAY

brouhaha

a state of commotion or excitement

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Test Your Vocabulary

Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz

  • the-triumph-of-venus-by-alessandro-magnasco
  • Boreal comes from the name of the ancient Greek god of which wind?
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ
SCRABBLE® Sprint

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games