Definition of hyacinth
1a : a precious stone of the ancients sometimes held to be the sapphireb : a gem zircon or hessonite
2a : a plant of the ancients held to be a lily, iris, larkspur, or gladiolusb : a bulbous perennial herb (Hyacinthus orientalis) of the lily family that is native to the Mediterranean region but is widely grown for its dense spikes of fragrant flowers — compare grape hyacinth, water hyacinth
3 : a light violet to moderate purple
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Origin and Etymology of hyacinth
Latin hyacinthus, a precious stone, a flowering plant, from Greek hyakinthos
First Known Use: 1553
HYACINTH Defined for English Language Learners
hyacinth
playDefinition of hyacinth for English Language Learners
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: a type of plant that is grown in gardens and has flowers that smell sweet
HYACINTH Defined for Kids
hyacinth
playDefinition of hyacinth for Students
: a plant often grown for its stalks of fragrant flowers shaped like bells
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Spanish Central: Translation of hyacinth Nglish: Translation of hyacinth for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hyacinth
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