Azahar
/ˌæz.əˈhɑːr/noun
The fragrant white blossom of a citrus tree, especially an orange tree.
Did you know?In Spanish, azahar entered through Arabic az-zahr, while citrus blossom itself became strongly associated with weddings, perfumes, and bridal symbolism across the Mediterranean.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
*ẓahr-
“A root associated with shining, radiance, or blossoming; the precise relationship among later Arabic forms is debated.”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
zahr
“A flower or blossom; related forms could refer to brightness or radiance.”
Medieval Arabic
Arabic
az-zahr
“The flower, with the Arabic definite article al- assimilated before the z sound.”
Medieval Spanish
Old Spanish
azahar
“The fragrant blossom of the orange or other citrus tree.”
16th Century
Spanish
azahar
“Citrus flower, especially orange blossom; the term spread through Spanish botanical and perfumery usage.”
Modern English
English
azahar
“Orange blossom or another citrus blossom, chiefly used in botanical, culinary, and perfumery contexts.”