Meaning

Any of several irises that have a fragrant root, especially Iris × germanica..

Definitions by Sense

1. Any of several irises that have a fragrant root, especially Iris × germanica.
2. The fragrant root of such an iris.
3. A type of gold or silver lace.
4. A pattern in which gold lace or silver lace is worked, especially one in which the edges are ornamented with conical figures placed at equal distances, with spots between them.

Example Sentences

1998, Claire Kowalchik, William H. Hylton, Orris, entry in Rodale′s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs, page 406, Orris is the part of the florentine iris you don′t see — the rhizome. […] The ancient Egyptians and Greeks learned that the bland-smelling orris root would take on a remarkable fragrance if dried for at least two years.

Drop twelve drops of genuine oil of rhodium on a lump of loaf-sugar ; grind this wel in a glass mortar, and mix it thoroughly with three pounds of orris powder.

Next place your hair, the rose quartz, some of the orris root powder, and the candle drippings into the box.

Word Forms

• orrises

Synonyms for orris

Related Words

When Should You Use Orris?

Use orris when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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