Alabastrine
/ˌæl.əˈbæs.trɪn/noun
Made of alabaster or resembling alabaster, especially in whiteness, smoothness, or translucence.
Did you know?Ancient alabaster containers were prized for storing fragrant oils and unguents because the stone was associated with luxury, ritual, and preservation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Egyptian period
Egyptian/Greek transmission
alabaster
“A fine, pale stone used for vessels and ornamental objects; the ultimate source is uncertain and may involve an Egyptian place-name.”
5th–4th Century BCE
Ancient Greek
ἀλάβαστρος (alábastros)
“A vessel made of alabaster, especially a container for perfume or ointment.”
1st Century BCE–1st Century CE
Latin
alabaster
“Alabaster stone or an alabaster vessel.”
12th–14th Century
Old French/Medieval Latin
alabastre
“Alabaster, including the stone and objects made from it.”
Late Middle English
English
alabaster
“A white, fine-grained stone used for carving and vessels.”
17th Century
English
alabastrine
“Made of alabaster or alabaster-like in appearance.”
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