perfume
|per/fume|
B1
🇺🇸
/ˈpɜr.fjuːm/
🇬🇧
/ˈpɜː.fjuːm/
fragrant liquid
Etymology
Etymology Information
'perfume' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'perfumare,' where 'per-' meant 'through' and 'fumare' meant 'to smoke.'
Historical Evolution
'perfumare' transformed into the Old French word 'parfumer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'perfume' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to smoke through,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a fragrant liquid.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a fragrant liquid typically made from essential oils extracted from flowers and spices, used to give a pleasant smell to one's body or clothes.
She wore a delicate perfume that lingered in the air.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45