sandalwood

noun

san·​dal·​wood ˈsan-dᵊl-ˌwu̇d 

1

: the compact close-grained fragrant yellowish heartwood of a parasitic tree (Santalum album of the family Santalaceae, the sandalwood family) of southern Asia much used in ornamental carving and cabinetwork

also : the tree that yields this wood

2

: any of various trees other than the sandalwood some of which yield dyewoods

also : the fragrant wood of such a tree

Examples of sandalwood in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Look for blends with earthy or woody elements like sandalwood, musk, or tobacco, paired with brighter floral notes. —Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026

Opt for calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, or vanilla—anything that instantly signals relaxation mode. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 3 Feb. 2026

The floral scent is a little outside of my comfort zone but the notes of sandalwood, rose, and magnolia sold me. —Jesa Marie Calaor, Allure, 31 Jan. 2026

All of its radiance-granting powers are effectively put towards a scent that comes alive with glowy warmth, courtesy of the mandarin, magnolia, coconut, sandalwood, and other ingredients found within. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

sandal sandalwood (from Middle English, from Anglo-French sandali, from Medieval Latin sandalum, from Late Greek santalon, ultimately from Sanskrit candana, of Dravidian origin; akin to Tamil cāntu sandalwood tree) + wood entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1511, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sandalwood

• sandalwood oil

Kids Definition

sandalwood

noun

san·​dal·​wood -ˌwu̇d 

: the close-grained fragrant yellowish wood of an Asian tree often used in carving and cabinetwork

also : the tree that yields this wood