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incense

noun in·cense \ ˈin-ˌsen(t)s \

Definition of incense

1 : material used to produce a fragrant odor when burned
2 : the perfume exhaled from some spices and gums when burned; broadly : a pleasing scent
3 : pleasing attention : flattery

See incense defined for English-language learners

See incense defined for kids

Examples of incense in a Sentence

  1. the heavenly incense of spring flowers

  2. count on the office manager to spread the incense whenever there's a visiting VIP from the head office

Origin and Etymology of incense

Middle English encens, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin incensum, from Latin, neuter of incensus, past participle of incendere to set on fire, from in- + -cendere to burn; akin to Latin candēre to glow — more at candid

incense Synonyms

Synonyms

aroma, balm, bouquet, fragrance, fragrancy, perfume, redolence, scent, spice;

Antonyms

reek, stench, stink;

Related Words

essence, odor;

2

incense

verb

Definition of incense

incensed; incensing
transitive verb
1 : to apply or offer incense to
2 : to perfume with incense

First Known Use of incense

13th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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3

incense

verb in·cense \ in-ˈsen(t)s \

Definition of incense

incensed; incensing
transitive verb
1 archaic : to cause (a passion or emotion) to become aroused
2 : to arouse the extreme anger or indignation of

Origin and Etymology of incense

Middle English encensen, probably from Latin incensus, past participle of incendere to set on fire, provoke

INCENSE Defined for English Language Learners

incense

noun

Definition of incense for English Language Learners

  • : a substance that is used often in religious ceremonies to produce a strong and pleasant smell when it is burned

INCENSE Defined for Kids

1

incense

noun in·cense \ ˈin-ˌsens \

Definition of incense for Students

: material used to produce a strong and pleasant smell when burned
2

incense

verb in·cense \ in-ˈsens \

Definition of incense for Students

incensed; incensing
: to make very angry
  • … the cabin party were incensed at me for my desertion …
  • —Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Island

Learn More about incense

  1. See words that rhyme with incense Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for incense Spanish Central: Translation of incense Nglish: Translation of incense for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of incense for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about incense

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