ambergris

noun

am·ber·gris | \ ˈam-bər-ˌgris

, -ˌgrē(s)\

Definition of ambergris

: 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

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The cologne, with notes of grapefruit, marine accord, and ambergris, is available now. — Sarah Spellings, The Cut, "Nick Youngquest on the Smell of a Men’s Locker Room and Seaweed," 26 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ambergris.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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The first known use of ambergris was in the 15th century

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ambergris

noun

am·ber·gris | \ ˈam-bər-ˌgris

, -ˌgrē(s)

Medical Definition of ambergris

: 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