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
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Examples of incense in a Sentence
the heavenly incense of spring flowers
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
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
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
playDefinition of incense for English Language Learners
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: a substance that is used often in religious ceremonies to produce a strong and pleasant smell when it is burned
INCENSE Defined for Kids
Definition of incense for Students
: material used to produce a strong and pleasant smell when burned
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
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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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