camphor

cam·phor

noun \ˈkam(p)-fər\

Definition of CAMPHOR

: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C₁₀H₁₆O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used as a liniment and mild topical analgesic in medicine, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent; also : any of several similar compounds (as some terpene alcohols and ketones)

— cam·pho·ra·ceous \ˌkam(p)-fə-ˈrā-shəs\ adjective

Origin of CAMPHOR

Middle English caumfre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin camphora, from Arabic kāfūr, from Malay kapur

First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with CAMPHOR

chamfer

cam·phor

noun \ˈkam(p)-fər\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of CAMPHOR

: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C₁₀H₁₆O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used topically as a liniment and mild analgesic, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent; also : any of several similar compounds (as some terpene alcohols and ketones)

—cam·phor·ic \kam-ˈfȯr-ik, -ˈfär-\ (audio pronunciation) adjective

camphor

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Organic compound of the isoprenoid family. A white, waxy solid with a penetrating, somewhat musty aroma, it is obtained from the wood of the camphor laurel (see laurel family), Cinnamomum camphora (found in Asia), or produced synthetically from oil of turpentine. It has long been used in incense and as a medicinal. Modern applications include use as a plasticizer for cellulose nitrate, as a moth repellent, as a flavouring, in embalming, and in fireworks. Camphorated oil is 20% camphor in olive oil.