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ambergris

Syllabification: (am·ber·gris)
Pronunciation: /ˈambərˌgris, -ˌgrē(s) /

Definition of ambergris

noun

  • a waxlike substance that originates as a secretion in the intestines of the sperm whale, found floating in tropical seas and used in perfume manufacture.

Origin:

late Middle English: from Old French ambre gris 'gray amber', as distinct from amber jaune 'yellow amber' (the resin)

ambergris in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of ambergris in the British & World English dictionary

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