champak, champac (champak)

[ Beng. champak a, Hind. champ a.] A beautiful Indian tree, Mi chelia Champaca, natural order Magnoliaceӕ, held in high esteem by Brahmans and Buddhists, and planted about their temples. Images of Buddha are made of its wood, which is olive-colored or dark-brown and often beautifully mottled, takes a fine polish, and is much prized for furniture. Its flowers are of a beautiful golden color and very fragrant, their perfume being much celebrated in Hindu poetry. They are worn in the hair by the native women. The wandering airs they faint On the dark, the silent stream- The champak odours fail, Like sweet thoughts in a dream. Shelley, Indian Serenade.