Langimage
English

attar

|at-tar|

C2

🇺🇸

/ˈætər/

🇬🇧

/ˈætə/

concentrated perfume oil

Etymology
Etymology Information

'attar' originates from Persian and from Arabic, specifically the Arabic word 'itr' (عِطْر) meaning 'perfume'.

Historical Evolution

'attar' entered English via Persian and South Asian languages (e.g. Urdu/Hindi 'ittar' or Persian 'itr'), becoming 'attar'/ 'ittar' in early modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'perfume' or 'fragrant oil', and this core meaning has been largely retained in modern English.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a fragrant essential oil or perfume, especially one derived from rose petals (also spelled 'ittar').

She bought a small bottle of attar at the market.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/11/15 01:07