frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from trees of a genus (Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming

Examples of frankincense in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Bonus points for the support from soothing botanicals like frankincense, gotu kola, white birch bark, and knotweed. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 9 Apr. 2025

The oil-free formula feels almost like a primer—enriched by red algae, frankincense, and a meadowfoam oil complex to soothe, protect, and moisturize. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 May 2025

The store features a dramatic two-floor-high crystalline glass facade housing an artistic depiction of a majestic frankincense tree, native to Oman’s desert. —Ritu Upadhyay, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

Options range from blends of frankincense, cedar, and rose, to my choice, a fusion of palmarosa and lemon—so refreshing and calming. —Nicole Brewer, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fraunk encense, from Anglo-French franc encens, from franc (perhaps in sense "of high quality") + encens incense

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for frankincense

• antisense
• commonsense
• effulgence
• ninepence
• nondefense
• penitence
• recommence
• recompence
• recompense
• cense
• dense
• fence

Kids Definition

frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from African or Arabian trees that is burned as incense

Medical Definition

frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from trees (genus Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming

called also olibanum