benzoin

noun

ben·zo·in | \ ˈben-zə-wən

, -zō-, -ˌwēn; -ˌzȯin \

Definition of benzoin

1 : a hard fragrant yellowish balsamic resin from trees (genus Styrax) of southeastern Asia used especially as a fixative in perfumes, as incense, and in medicine as an expectorant and skin protectant

2 : a white crystalline hydroxy ketone C₁₄H₁₂O₂ made from benzaldehyde

Examples of benzoin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In my garden, some sumacs may start to turn as September arrives, while other natives like blueberries (Vaccinium, which pollinators and birds appreciate) remain fiery into November, as spicebush (Lindera benzoin) continues beaming its vivid yellow. — Margaret Roach, Arkansas Online, 22 May 2021 Cuentos de la Selva, meanwhile, has a zesty bergamot and smoky benzoin aroma designed to evoke a sacred initiation ceremony in Mesopotamian culture. — New York Times, 11 May 2021 Some shrubs grow well in dry shade, such as the native spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and bush honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera). — Beth Botts, chicagotribune.com, 9 Aug. 2020 This latest version of the scent reportedly features top notes of lavender and bergamot, middle notes of jasmine, iris, and rose, and base notes of vanilla, sandalwood, coumarin, benzoin, licorice, and patchouli. — Marci Robin, Allure, 4 Aug. 2019 There's benzoin and rose honey in there, plus incense absolute, ylang ylang, cumin, atlas cedar, and sandalwood. — Sarah Wu, Glamour, 19 Oct. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'benzoin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Benzoin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzoin. Accessed 20 May. 2022.

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More Definitions for benzoin

benzoin

noun

ben·zo·in | \ ˈben-zə-wən

, -ˌwēn; -ˌzȯin

Medical Definition of benzoin

1 : a hard fragrant yellowish balsamic resin from trees (genus Styrax of the family Styracaceae) of southeastern Asia used especially as an expectorant and topically to relieve skin irritations

2 : a white crystalline hydroxy ketone C₁₄H₁₂O₂ made from benzaldehyde

3 : a tree yielding benzoin