labdanum

noun

lab·​da·​num ˈlab-də-nəm How to pronounce labdanum (audio)
variants or less commonly
ˈla-də-nəm How to pronounce labdanum (audio)
ˈlad-nəm
: a soft dark fragrant bitter oleoresin derived from various rockroses (genus Cistus) and used in making perfumes

Examples of labdanum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Afterward, the result was a mixture of rockrose leaves dripping with labdanum, a sticky resin, that the scientists used to haft arrowheads to wood in a type of makeshift spear. Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024 It’s designed to capture the essence of laying beach-side on the Mediterranean, with top notes of mint leaves, brown sugar, and Italian lemon zest, middle notes of jasmine, peony, pink pepper and a base of cedarwood and labdanum. Anamaria Glavan, Allure, 22 Nov. 2024 This candle combines incense softened by the lily of the valley, resting on a base of labdanum. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 31 Oct. 2024 One is the modern-day chypre, an accord that mixes notes of bergamot, oak moss, patchouli and labdanum. Jennifer Weil, WWD, 8 Oct. 2024 With notes of whiskey, vanilla, labdanum, and oakwood, this cologne is warm, woody, and spicy—perfect for the fall evenings ahead. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2024 The base of Sirène anchors the fragrance with a blend of moss, benzoin, cistus, labdanum, and cypriol. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 26 July 2024 The resinous qualities of cistus and labdanum add depth and longevity, ensuring that the fragrance lingers beautifully on the skin. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 26 July 2024 For White Linen, a classic floral bouquet of rose and jasmine, Malle used pure labdanum, an ambery resin from the rockrose plant, which wasn’t available when the scent debuted in 1978. Caitie Kelly Kin Woo Kate Guadagnino Nicole Demarco Megan O’Sullivan, New York Times, 25 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin lapdanum

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near labdanum

Cite this Entry

“Labdanum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/labdanum. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

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