Main Entry:

¹in·cense

Pronunciation:

\ˈin-ˌsen(t)s\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

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

Date:

13th century

1: material used to produce a fragrant odor when burned2: the perfume exhaled from some spices and gums when burned ; broadly : a pleasing scent3: pleasing attention : flattery