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

This all-purpose detergent is decadently (but not overwhelmingly) scented with notes of lily of the valley, musk, and sandalwood for a bright, crisp scent, skillfully targeting dirt stains and grime every wash. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 18 Apr. 2025

The vanilla, sandalwood, and almond milk create this creamy, sophisticated base that elevates GUAVA GRANITA beyond just another fruit bomb. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 9 Apr. 2025

The bourbon is aromatic and complex on the nose, featuring sandalwood, coconut shell, and vanilla. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025

The fragrance features a blend of Australian pink pepper, French lavender, American cedarwood, and New Caledonia sandalwood. —Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 20 Mar. 2025

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