Pronunciation: [lˈa͡ɪlək] (IPA) 
The word "lilac" is spelled with five letters and has two syllables. It begins with the voiceless alveolar fricative /l/, followed by the close front unrounded vowel /ɪ/, and the voiced velar stop /ɡ/. The second syllable begins with the lax vowel /æ/ and ends with the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/. The word is pronounced as /ˈlaɪlək/ and refers to a flowering plant with fragrant purple, pink or white clusters of blooms.
Lilac is a noun that primarily refers to a flowering shrub or small tree scientifically known as Syringa vulgaris, native to southeastern Europe and widely cultivated for its fragrant, pale purple flowers. It also commonly refers to the light purplish color reminiscent of these flowers.
In terms of its botanical characteristics, lilac belongs to the olive family Oleaceae and typically grows to a height of around six to fifteen feet. The shrub features opposite, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small, tubular flowers that bloom in spring. Lilac flowers are produced in a range of colors, including the signature pale purple, but can also be found in white, pink, lavender, or even deep purple hues. They possess a distinct and pleasant fragrance, often associated with springtime and freshness.
The term lilac can also be used as an adjective, describing something that is a pale purple or light violet color, similar to the blooms of the lilac tree. This color is often used in various contexts, such as fashion, interior design, or art, to convey a sense of delicacy, elegance, or femininity.
Furthermore, lilac has an additional meaning that relates to the scent or fragrance of lilac flowers. It can evoke memories or experiences associated with the smell of lilacs, which is often perceived as soothing, nostalgic, or comforting.
• a flowering shrub
• Of a purple colour like the lilac.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "lilac" originated from the Persian word "līlak", which refers to the bluish-purple color of the flower. This Persian term was then borrowed into Arabic as "līlak", and later it was introduced into Europe through the Arabic-speaking Moors in Spain. It is believed that the English term "lilac" was ultimately derived from the Arabic word. The specific shade of purple associated with the flower eventually became known as "lilac" due to its resemblance to the color of the flower itself.
