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
Technique plays a strong role, with the warm amber tones and use of slow-motion in the long-ago past contrasting with the flatter and more formal look of the present. Richard Kuipers, Variety, 2 Nov. 2024 The boya oud and amber in Mentor are stately (in the scent and on their own), while the rose absolute and patchouli in Prodigy are a masterclass in perfectly opposite attraction. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024
Adjective
The scent is a mysterious mix of fresh woods and amber warmth, perfect for setting a cozy holiday mood and keeping that feeling alive well into winter. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 31 Oct. 2024 Lavished with vanilla crème and marshmallow notes, the woody floral musk veers from overly sweet territory with sea salt, crisp star apple, and a base of sheer amber, teakwood, and skin musk. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near amber

Cite this Entry

“Amber.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amber. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!