Atar

/ɑːˈtɑːr/ noun

Definition

An aromatic essential oil or fragrant liquid extract, particularly from roses or other flowers; also spelled 'attar'.

Etymology

From Arabic 'ittar' or 'attar', derived from Persian origins meaning 'fragrance' or 'perfume'. The word came into English through trade with the Middle East and South Asia, where such oils were highly valued commodities.

Kelly Says

Attar of roses was so expensive and precious in medieval Europe that it was literally worth more than gold by weight—a tiny vial of rose attar was a luxury item only royalty could afford.

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