safrole

noun

saf·​role ˈsaf-ˌrōl How to pronounce safrole (audio)
: a poisonous oily cyclic ether C10H10O2 that is the principal component of sassafras oil and is used chiefly in perfumery

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from sassafras + -ole

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of safrole was in 1869

Dictionary Entries Near safrole

Cite this Entry

“Safrole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safrole. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

safrole

noun
saf·​role ˈsaf-ˌrōl How to pronounce safrole (audio)
variants also safrol
: a poisonous oily cyclic carcinogenic ether C10H10O2 that is the principal component of sassafras oil and occurs also in other essential oils (as camphor oil) and that is used chiefly in perfumery
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