frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from trees of a genus (Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming

Examples of frankincense in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Soft, sweet, and fresh, jasmine, wood accord, iris, and frankincense gives the eau de parfum genderless appeal. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 5 Sep. 2024

The researchers found juniper resin and frankincense on the mummy’s surface. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 2 Aug. 2024

It’s derived from the gum resin of the Boswellia tree, also known as Indian frankincense. —Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Verywell Health, 5 Aug. 2024

Key extracts in the formula include rose petals (which are also responsible for the light floral scent), red algae, and frankincense. —Karina Hoshikawa, refinery29.com, 16 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fraunk encense, from Anglo-French franc encens, from franc (perhaps in sense "of high quality") + encens incense

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from African or Arabian trees that is burned as incense

Medical Definition

frankincense

noun

frank·​in·​cense ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 

: a fragrant gum resin from trees (genus Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming

called also olibanum