ylang-ylang

noun

ˌē-ˌläŋ-ˈē-ˌläŋ 

variants or less commonly ilang-ilang

1

: a tree (Cananga odorata) of the custard-apple family that is native to the Malay Archipelago, the Philippines, and adjacent areas and has very fragrant greenish-yellow flowers

2

: a perfume distilled from the flowers of the ylang-ylang tree

Examples of ylang-ylang in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

High-quality craftsmanship—like the common space’s dark-wood pillars, reclaimed from Rajasthan’s crumbling havelis—is paired with standout accessories within each suite (think Häfele kettles and organic toiletries smelling of neroli and ylang-ylang). —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026

Lavender, mimosa, and ylang-ylang give it a delicate finish, but the sandalwood and orris drydown gives it depth and lasting power. —Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 3 Jan. 2026

Freedom Musk Bouquet | 27 is the floral one with ylang-ylang, Turkish rose, and vanilla musk. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 16 Dec. 2025

For instance, maca root extract and ylang-ylang oil lend a warm, romantic feel, while ginger, rosehip, and passionfruit oils smooth and nourish. —Jamie Ballard, Allure, 14 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Tagalog

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ylang-ylang

• bang
• chuang
• clang
• dang
• drang
• fang
• gang
• gangue
• hang
• hange
• kang
• kiang