incense

¹in·cense

noun \ˈin-ˌsen(t)s\

Definition of INCENSE

1

: material used to produce a fragrant odor when burned

2

: the perfume exhaled from some spices and gums when burned; broadly : a pleasing scent

3

: pleasing attention : flattery

Examples of INCENSE

1. <the heavenly incense of spring flowers>
2. <count on the office manager to spread the incense whenever there's a visiting VIP from the head office>

Origin of INCENSE

Middle English encens, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin incensum, from Latin, neuter of incensus, past participle of incendere to set on fire, from in- + -cendere to burn; akin to Latin candēre to glow — more at candid

First Known Use: 13th century

Related to INCENSE

Synonyms

aroma, attar (also otto), balm, bouquet, fragrancy, fragrance, perfume, redolence, scent, spice

Antonyms

fetor, malodor, reek, stench, stink

Related Words

essence, odor

Near Antonyms

bad-mouthing, belittlement, depreciation, detraction, disparagement, put-down

²incense

transitive verb

in·censedin·cens·ing

Definition of INCENSE

1

: to apply or offer incense to

2

: to perfume with incense

First Known Use of INCENSE

13th century

Rhymes with INCENSE

defense, expense, horse sense, nonsense, past tense, sequence, sixth sense

³in·cense

transitive verb \in-ˈsen(t)s\

in·censedin·cens·ing

Definition of INCENSE

1

archaic : to cause (a passion or emotion) to become aroused

2

: to arouse the extreme anger or indignation of

Origin of INCENSE

Middle English encensen, probably from Latin incensus, past participle of incendere to set on fire, provoke

First Known Use: 15th century

incense

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Grains of resins (sometimes mixed with spices) that burn with a fragrant odor, widely used as religious offerings. Historically, the chief substances used as incense have been resins such as frankincense and myrrh, along with fragrant wood and bark, seeds, roots, and flowers.