Definition

Noun: 1. (Botany) Magnolia: A type of tree, specifically referring to plants in the genus Magnolia, known for their large, often fragrant, and showy flowers. This is the primary botanical term. 2. Champaca: A specific type of fragrant flowering tree, Magnolia champaca (syn. Michelia champaca), highly valued in Asia for its intensely fragrant yellow or white flowers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Hương ngọc lan thoang thoảng trong khu vườn. (The scent of magnolia wafts through the garden.)
  • Cô ấy thích cài một bông hoa ngọc lan lên tóc. (She likes to pin a champaca flower in her hair.)
  • Cây ngọc lan trước nhà đã nở hoa. (The magnolia tree in front of the house has bloomed.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "ngọc lan" is often used in Vietnamese poetry and literature to symbolize purity, delicate beauty, and gentle fragrance.
• In traditional contexts, "hoa ngọc lan" (magnolia/champaca flower) is sometimes associated with respect and offering.

Variants and Related Words

• Hoa ngọc lan (n): Magnolia flower / Champaca flower.
• Cây ngọc lan (n): Magnolia tree / Champaca tree.
• Ngọc lan ta: A common name for the white champaca ().

Synonyms

• Mộc lan (n): This is another general term for magnolia, sometimes used interchangeably with ngọc lan, though mộc lan often refers to larger-flowered species.
• Sứ (n): Frangipani/Plumeria. This is a different fragrant flower tree, but it is sometimes confused with ngọc lan by learners due to its cultural significance and common presence in gardens.

Related Phrases

• Hương ngọc lan: The scent of magnolia/champaca.
• Mùa ngọc lan nở: The season when magnolias/champacas bloom.

noun

1. (Bot) magnolia