SINCE 1828

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neem

noun \ ˈnēm \

Definition of neem

:a large tropical Asian tree (Azadirachta indica) of the mahogany family having a bitter bark used as a tonic and leaves and seeds that have insecticidal and antiseptic properties and yield a medicinal aromatic oil

Recent Examples of neem from the Web

Nymphs can be controlled with insecticidal soap, pyrethrum, rotenone or neem.

— ellen nibali, baltimoresun.com, "Garden Q&A: Black-eyed Susans with fungal leaf spot disease," 11 July 2017
Rose petals and neem leaves are powerful, calming botanicals that both soothe the skin and help detox the body after an aggravating day.

— liza myers, Bon Appetit, "7 Products For a Cool, Calm, and Delicious Summer," 7 July 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'neem.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of neem

Hindi & Urdu nīm, from Sanskrit nimba

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First Known Use: 1813

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