dried bark of various magnolias; used in folk medicine
"The herbalist prepared a decoction from dried magnolia bark to treat her patient's digestive issues according to traditional folk medicine practices."
any shrub or tree of the genus Magnolia; valued for their longevity and exquisite fragrant blooms
"The ancient magnolia in the garden stood as a testament to its species, celebrated not only for its exquisite fragrant blooms but also for remarkable longevity."
A tree or shrub in any species of the genus Magnolia, many with large flowers and simple leaves.
"The old magnolia stood at the edge of the garden, its large white blooms contrasting beautifully against the simple green leaves."
In plain English: A magnolia is a type of flowering tree known for its large, fragrant white or pink blooms that appear before its leaves grow out in spring.
"The magnolia tree in our front yard is covered with large white flowers every spring."
Usage: Avoid using "magnolia" as an adjective to describe colors other than creamy white, as this specific usage is often confused with the unrelated term "mauve." Do not capitalize the word unless referring specifically to the genus or a proper noun derived from it.
Of a creamy white colour, like that of some magnolia flowers.
"The old man's hair was a soft magnolia against his weathered face."
"The magnolia tree planted at the entrance marks our property line."
A female given name from English, one of the less common flower names invented in the 19th century.
"Magnolia was chosen as her middle name by a Victorian grandmother who loved rare floral monikers."
The word "magnolia" comes from the French name of a botanist named Pierre Magnol. His surname ultimately traces back to the Latin word for "great."