babassu

noun

ba·​bas·​su ˌbä-bə-ˈsü 

: a tall pinnate-leaved palm (Attalea speciosa synonym Orbignya phalerata) of Brazil with hard-shelled nuts yielding a valuable oil

Examples of babassu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Everything is thoughtfully sourced, and unlike many soaps that rely heavily on palm oil, this formula uses babassu oil from Brazil, which leaves skin feeling soft and nourished. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 12 Mar. 2026

Formulated with amaranth protein, cocoa butter, hemp seed oil, moringa oil, rice protein and babassu oil, the product doubles as a detangler and a heat protectant. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 26 Feb. 2026

The formula is infused with biotin to support stronger, healthier hair over time, as well as coconut and babassu seed oils to replenish moisture and vitality in weak strands. —Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 26 Dec. 2025

The radiance and fresh-grapefruit scent linger on the skin; so do the moisturizing sunflower, passion fruit, açai, babassu, and rice bran oils. —Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese babaçú, from Tupi *ɨβáwasú, from ɨβá fruit + -wasú large

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for babassu

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue