camphor

noun

cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C10H16O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used as a liniment and mild topical analgesic in medicine, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent
also : any of several similar compounds (such as some terpene alcohols and ketones)
camphoraceous
ˌkam(p)-fə-ˈrā-shəs How to pronounce camphor (audio)
adjective

Examples of camphor 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.
When its leaves are rubbed, their oils emit an aroma likened to a mix of camphor and rosemary. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 12 Dec. 2025 Russian sage contains camphor, an aromatic compound that gives the plant a strong scent deer don't like. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Apr. 2026 However, keep in mind there are some ingredients like menthol and camphor that can further dry out your lips with overuse. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 20 Feb. 2026 Simply toss one tablet under hot water to breathe in eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 25 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for camphor

Word History

Etymology

Middle English caumfre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin camphora, from Arabic kāfūr, from Malay kapur

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of camphor was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing camphor

Rhymes for camphor

See All Rhymes for camphor

Browse Nearby Words

campholytic acid
camphor
camphorate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Camphor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/camphor. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

camphor

noun
cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy fragrant compound obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used in medicine and as an insect repellent

Medical Definition

camphor

noun
cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C10H16O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used topically as a liniment and mild analgesic, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent
also : any of several similar compounds (as some terpene alcohols and ketones)
camphoric
kam-ˈfȯr-ik, -ˈfär- How to pronounce camphor (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on camphor

Nglish: Translation of camphor for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about camphor

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