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. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 1 Dec. 2025

Juicy peach and plum top notes give way to a musky, woody base of white moss, sandalwood, and orcanox, while powdery orris leaves a subtle yet lingering orchard-like trail. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Nov. 2025

The 34 Boulevard Saint German candle has hints of sandalwood and vanilla to freshen up any space. —Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 24 Nov. 2025

First up is Snif’s Extra Whip Body Mist, which envelops you in sweet vanilla sugar and milky sandalwood at only $15. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 24 Nov. 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