Ebenist
/ˈɛbənɪst/noun
A craftsperson who makes fine furniture and decorative objects, especially from ebony.
Did you know?The word ultimately traces to the ancient name for ebony, a rare black wood prized in Egypt and the Mediterranean for luxury objects, inlay, and carved ritual items.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Egypt
Egyptian
hbny
“Ebony; a valuable dark wood, probably imported into Egypt from Africa and elsewhere”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ébenos
“Ebony wood”
Ancient Latin
Latin
ebenus
“Ebony”
13th Century
Old French
ébène
“Ebony”
17th Century
French
ébéniste
“A worker in ebony; a maker of fine furniture”
18th Century
English
ebenist
“A cabinetmaker specializing in ebony or richly veneered furniture”
Explore more surprising origins