sandalwood

noun

san·​dal·​wood ˈsan-dᵊl-ˌwu̇d How to pronounce sandalwood (audio)
1
: the compact close-grained fragrant yellowish heartwood of a parasitic tree (Santalum album of the family Santalaceae, the sandalwood family) of southern Asia much used in ornamental carving and cabinetwork
also : the tree that yields this wood
2
: any of various trees other than the sandalwood some of which yield dyewoods
also : the fragrant wood of such a tree

Examples of sandalwood in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The result is a whiskey with distinct spiciness, sandalwood aromas, and a hint of coconut, offering a truly Japanese whiskey experience. Lela London, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 In addition to the floral notes, the candle is scented with earthy tones like sandalwood and musk. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 4 Feb. 2024 All of the products are scented with Temple Oud, a subtle blend of Australian sandalwood, musk, and night blooming jasmine. Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 20 Feb. 2024 Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the film traced the rise of Pushpa Raj (Arjun), a laborer who rises through the ranks of a red sandalwood smuggling syndicate and faces off against an egotistical police officer. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Feb. 2024 The tantalizing vanilla and sandalwood aroma sets the perfect stage for giving each other relaxing massages. Cristian Esteban, Rolling Stone, 7 Feb. 2024 On Saks Fifth Avenue Pros The sandalwood aroma feels subtle and not too smoky, so this is a great option for those who love sandalwood but want something light. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 14 Dec. 2023 Cocoa nibs and sandalwood incense on the nose with black cherry skins and broader tannins give more structure and shape with a vibrant and well-focused finish. Cathrine Todd, Forbes, 10 Feb. 2024 With a composition of magnolia, sandalwood, and violet at its heart, alongside ambrette, cedarwood, and amber, this is a genderless, truly layerable aroma. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sandalwood.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

sandal sandalwood (from Middle English, from Anglo-French sandali, from Medieval Latin sandalum, from Late Greek santalon, ultimately from Sanskrit candana, of Dravidian origin; akin to Tamil cāntu sandalwood tree) + wood entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1511, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sandalwood was circa 1511

Dictionary Entries Near sandalwood

Cite this Entry

“Sandalwood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sandalwood. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

sandalwood

noun
san·​dal·​wood -ˌwu̇d How to pronounce sandalwood (audio)
: the close-grained fragrant yellowish wood of an Asian tree often used in carving and cabinetwork
also : the tree that yields this wood

More from Merriam-Webster on sandalwood

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