What does myrrh mean?
Myrrh is a fragrant, bitter-smelling resin obtained from trees of the genus Commiphora, particularly Commiphora myrrha, native to northeastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. People have used it for thousands of years in incense, perfume, medicine, and embalming, and it features prominently in biblical and other ancient religious traditions. The term can refer either to the resin itself or, in botanical contexts, to a tree that produces it. Myrrh has a warm, resinous aroma and is valued for both its fragrance and its traditional medicinal applications. Although modern preparations are available in oils, balms, and incense, the word remains associated especially with historical and ceremonial uses. It should not be confused with myrtle, a leafy aromatic shrub, or with other plant gums used in food and commercial products.
nounAn aromatic, resinous substance obtained from trees of the genus Commiphora and used traditionally in incense, perfume, medicine, and embalming. The name also refers to trees that produce this resin.
- The fragrant resin or gum obtained mainly from trees of the genus Commiphora, traditionally burned as incense and used in perfume, medicine, and embalming.
- A tree of the genus Commiphora that produces myrrh, especially Commiphora myrrha.
"A trace of myrrh warmed the ancient incense with a rich, bitter fragrance."
"The resin was identified as myrrh after laboratory analysis confirmed its distinctive chemical composition."
"Myrrh trees grow well in the dry soils of northeastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula."
Rarely used, because myrrh is normally an uncountable mass noun.
"The traders displayed myrrhs from several different regions for the buyer to inspect."
The biblical Magi offered myrrh alongside gold and frankincense, making it one of the most famous fragrance gifts in history.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does myrrh come from?
The word entered English through Old French myrrhe and Latin myrrha, both derived from Ancient Greek murron, meaning myrrh. The Greek word was probably borrowed from a Semitic source related to Arabic and Hebrew murr, terms for myrrh and, in related forms, a bitter taste. The name thus reflects a long history of trade across North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Near East.
How myrrh is actually used
Myrrh is a formal or literary word, common in historical, religious, medical, and fragrance-related contexts. It normally denotes the resin rather than the tree, although the name is also used botanically for the source tree.
Easily confused with myrrh
Myrrh is an aromatic resin, whereas myrtle is a shrub or small tree with fragrant leaves.
Myrrh is a strongly aromatic medicinal resin, while gum arabic is a separate, largely tasteless substance used chiefly as an emulsifier and stabilizer.