Dictionary
myrtle
noun, myr·tle often attributive \ˈmər-təl\
: a type of small tree that has sweet-smelling white or pink flowers and black berries
Full Definition of MYRTLE
1
a : a common evergreen bushy shrub (Myrtus communis of the family Myrtaceae, the myrtle family) of southern Europe with oval to lance-shaped shiny leaves, fragrant white or rosy flowers, and black berries b : any of the chiefly tropical shrubs or trees comprising the myrtle family
2
a : 1periwinkle 1a b : california laurel
See myrtle defined for English-language learners
See myrtle defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Illustration of MYRTLE
Origin of MYRTLE
Middle English mirtille, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin myrtillus, from Latin myrtus, from Greek myrtos
First Known Use: 1562
MYRTLE Defined for Kids
myrtle
noun myr·tle \ˈmər-təl\
Definition of MYRTLE for Kids
1
: an evergreen shrub of southern Europe with fragrant flowers
2
Learn More About MYRTLE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up myrtle? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).