E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Am’ber.
This fossilised vegetable resin is, according to legend, a concretion of birds’ tears. The birds were the sisters of Meleger, who never ceased weeping for the death of their brother.—Ovid: Metamorphoses, viii. line 270, etc.
1
“Around thee shall glisten the loveliest amber
That ever the sorrowing sea-bird hath wept.”
T. Moore: Fire Worshippers.
Amber, a repository. So called because insects and small leaves are preserved in amber.
2
“You may be disposed to preserve it in your amber.”—Notes and Queries.—W. Dowe.
ger, who never ceased weeping for the death of their brother.—Ovid: Metamorphoses, viii. line 270, etc.
