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

Clove, patchouli, sandalwood, cardamom, and petitgrain punctuate this sensual number from Symrise perfumer Carlos Viñals. —Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 28 Mar. 2024

This candle features notes of cashmere, vanilla, rose, and sandalwood in a base of skin-safe coconut apricot wax that melts into the body for a relaxing massage moment. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 4 Feb. 2024

The aroma is a blend of blueberries, black current, sandalwood, vanilla, tobacco and sassafras. —Liz Thach, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2024

The santal bloom scent can impress the fragrance aficionado in your life, with notes of rose, jasmine, and sandalwood. —Renee Cherry, Glamour, 17 Jan. 2024

The result is a whiskey with distinct spiciness, sandalwood aromas, and a hint of coconut, offering a truly Japanese whiskey experience. —Lela London, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024

In addition to the floral notes, the candle is scented with earthy tones like sandalwood and musk. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 4 Feb. 2024

All of the products are scented with Temple Oud, a subtle blend of Australian sandalwood, musk, and night blooming jasmine. —Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 20 Feb. 2024

Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the film traced the rise of Pushpa Raj (Arjun), a laborer who rises through the ranks of a red sandalwood smuggling syndicate and faces off against an egotistical police officer. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Feb. 2024

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