amber
UK: ˈæmbə | US: ˈæmbər
n. 1. A hard, translucent fossilized resin, typically yellow or orange, used in jewelry.
n. 2. A medium to dark orange-yellow color.
n. 3. (poetic) The color of amber; golden hue.
The word "amber" traces back to the Arabic "ʿanbar," referring to ambergris (a waxy substance from sperm whales) and later fossilized resin. Through Old French "ambre," it entered Middle English, retaining its association with the golden resin. The "-er" suffix is a common noun-forming ending in English, though in this case, it’s part of the original borrowed form. The shift from ambergris to fossil resin reflects the material’s trade history and visual similarity.
The necklace was made of polished amber, capturing sunlight within its golden depths.
Her dress matched the amber hues of the autumn leaves.
Ancient insects preserved in amber provide clues about prehistoric ecosystems.
The traffic light turned amber, signaling drivers to slow down.
He described her eyes as warm amber in the candlelight.