Ebony

/ˈɛbəni/ noun

Definition

A very hard, dark, heavy wood from certain tropical trees, often used for fine furniture or instruments.

Etymology

From Old French 'eben', from Latin 'ebenus', from Greek 'ebenos', likely from an ancient Egyptian or other Afro-Asian language. It has long been a luxury material traded across continents.

Kelly Says

Ebony is so dense it can sink in water, unlike most woods. Its deep black color made it a symbol of elegance and mystery, which is why 'ebony' is also used poetically to describe very dark colors.

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