stephanotis

American  

[stef-uh-noh-tis] / ˌstɛf əˈnoʊ tɪs /

noun

1. any vine belonging to the genus Stephanotis, of the milkweed family, having fragrant, waxy, white flowers and leathery leaves.

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stephanotis British  

/ ˌstɛfəˈnəʊtɪs /

noun

1. any climbing asclepiadaceous shrub of the genus Stephanotis, esp S. floribunda, of Madagascar and Malaya: cultivated for their fragrant white waxy flowers

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Etymology

Origin of stephanotis

1865–70; < New Latin < Greek stephanōtís (feminine adj.) fit for a crown, derivative of stéphanos (masculine) crown

Example Sentences

Soon, classic floral scents — rose, lily of the valley, violet, stephanotis — were sold alongside grooming products, bespoke fragrances concocted for wealthy clients in the shop’s cellar.

From New York Times

She carried a bouquet of stephanotis, orange, and myrtle.

From Project Gutenberg

Her hair was once again piled on the top of her head, a wreath of stephanotis surrounding it, and she stood in silent ecstasy gazing at her image in the glass.

From Project Gutenberg

Over her shoulders is a China crape shawl, either white or rose-coloured—a wedding present,—and her raven tresses are set off by a bunch of wax-like stephanotis or of scarlet hibiscus.

From Project Gutenberg

At the table a charming surprise does indeed await her--a bouquet of stephanotis and gardenias.

From Project Gutenberg