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

Origin and Etymology of benzoin

modification of Middle French benjoin, from Catalan benjuí, from Arabic lubān jāwi, literally, frankincense of Java

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1558

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

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