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

Moisture-sealing babassu oil smooths the hair cuticle, nourishing murumuru butter replenishes dry strands, and hyaluronic acid provides lightweight hydration without weighing hair down. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 19 June 2026

It’s infused with moisturizing ingredients like coconut and babassu oils, which also add noticeable shine. — Claire West, PEOPLE, 6 Apr. 2026

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

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