benzoin

noun

ben·​zo·​in ˈben-zə-wən How to pronounce benzoin (audio)
-zō-, 
-ˌwēn How to pronounce benzoin (audio) -ˌzȯin How to pronounce benzoin (audio)
1
: a hard fragrant yellowish balsamic resin from trees (genus Styrax) of southeastern Asia used especially as a fixative in perfumes, as incense, and in medicine as an expectorant and skin protectant
2
: a white crystalline hydroxy ketone C14H12O2 made from benzaldehyde

Examples of benzoin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The benzoin keeps it from getting too sharp, and the vetiver adds some depth without fighting with the rhubarb. — Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 22 Jan. 2026 The base is anchored with vanilla and benzoin, giving the fragrance a warm, resinous finish that lingers for hours on skin. — Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2025 Amber perfumes contain notes like vanilla, tonka bean, patchouli, and benzoin. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 18 Feb. 2026 And the base has vanilla bean absolute from Madagascar, mixed with benzoin resinoid and cistus absolute. — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for benzoin

Word History

Etymology

modification of Middle French benjoin, from Catalan benjuí, from Arabic lubān jāwi, literally, frankincense of Java

First Known Use

1558, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzoin was in 1558

Rhymes for benzoin

See All Rhymes for benzoin

Browse Nearby Words

benzoic sulfimide
benzoin
benzoinated
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Benzoin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzoin. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

benzoin

noun
ben·​zo·​in ˈben-zə-wən How to pronounce benzoin (audio) -ˌwēn; -ˌzȯin How to pronounce benzoin (audio)
1
: a hard fragrant yellowish balsamic resin from trees (genus Styrax of the family Styracaceae) of southeastern Asia used especially as an expectorant and topically to relieve skin irritations
2
: a white crystalline hydroxy ketone C14H12O2 made from benzaldehyde
3
: a tree yielding benzoin
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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