Meanings
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1
noun
historical: a ball of aromatic substances carried for fragrance or as a supposed protection against infection
The courtier carried a pomander compounded from ambergris, musk, and spices.
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2
noun
a small perforated case or piece of jewellery made to hold aromatic substances
The silver pomander opened into compartments for several different perfumes.
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3
noun
an orange or other fruit studded with cloves and used as a fragrant decoration
They hung a clove-studded pomander beside the winter greenery.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Old French pomme d'ambre, 'apple of ambergris,' from pomme, 'apple or ball,' + ambre, 'ambergris.' The name first denoted a fragrant compound and then its pierced container; modern decorative clove-studded fruit preserves the round scented form.