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 votive is a mix of eucalyptus and sandalwood along with Szechuan pepper and fennel to make your space feel fresh and inviting this season. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 10 Nov. 2025

The lightweight formula contains rice starch to absorb oil and give your roots lift and texture, while the zen matcha fragrance—complemented by notes of green tea, chamomile, sandalwood, and warm spices—is refreshing and makes your hair smell amazing. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025

Valero rounds out the trio as a woody fougère with bourbon geranium, lavender, sandalwood, and ambrox. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 6 Nov. 2025

The best part, however, is the subtle, luxurious notes of bergamot, black pepper, sandalwood, and ginger that linger on the skin. —Emily Farris, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Oct. 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