amber

1 of 2

noun

am·​ber ˈam-bər How to pronounce amber (audio)
1
: a hard yellowish to brownish translucent fossil resin that takes a fine polish and is used chiefly in making ornamental objects (such as beads)
2
: a variable color averaging a dark orange yellow

amber

2 of 2

adjective

1
: consisting of amber
2
: resembling amber
especially : having the color amber

Examples of amber in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
This three-wick votive is a smokey mix of patchouli, amber and leather to make your space feel warm and inviting this season. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 29 Oct. 2025 Grab one in every scent, from deep, leathered amber to light, crisp apple, and enjoy 40 hours of burn time per jar. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Oct. 2025
Adjective
Each is hand-poured into a striking rectangular amber glass vessel and presented in an elegant red box that feels tailor-made for gifting. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 14 Oct. 2025 With a jeweled design, bee detail accents, an amber lid knob, and a wooden handle, this tea kettle is elegant from top to bottom. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for amber

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English ambre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin ambra, from Arabic ʽanbar ambergris

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of amber was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amber.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amber. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

amber

noun
am·​ber
ˈam-bər
1
: a hard yellowish partly transparent resin from trees long dead that can be highly polished and is used for ornamental objects (as beads)
2
: a dark orange yellow
amber adjective

Medical Definition

amber

noun
am·​ber ˈam-bər How to pronounce amber (audio)
: a hard yellowish to brownish translucent fossil resin that takes a fine polish and is used chiefly in making ornamental objects (as beads)
amber adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on amber

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