citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈne-lə 

: either of two lemon-scented grasses (Cymbopogon nardus and C. winterianus) of southern Asia that yield an oil used in perfumery and as an insect repellent

also : its oil

Examples of citronella in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The strongest essential oils are lemon, eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, citronella, peppermint, rosemary, and clove. —Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 18 Apr. 2026

Keep mosquitoes from ruining the vibe in your backyard living room with this set of two citronella-scented candles. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

Deterrent sprays made with peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella, clove, geranium, and lemongrass essential oils are even more effective than the plants themselves. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Apr. 2026

Peppermint, rosemary, and citronella oils can effectively deter mice for up to 60 days. —Kylie McConville, The Spruce, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for citronella

• arabella
• bartonella
• bordetella
• cinderella
• columella
• isabella
• klebsiella
• legionella
• mozzarella
• pasteurella
• salmonella
• trichinella

Kids Definition

citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə 

: a lemon-scented oil obtained from a grass of southern Asia and used in perfumes and as an insect repellent

Medical Definition

citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə 

1

: citronella oil

2

: either of two fragrant grasses (Cymbopogon nardus and C. winterianus) of southern Asia that yield citronella oil