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

The benzoin and sandalwood in the base aren’t just beautiful, but they’re responsibly sourced through partnerships that set new industry standards. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 21 Feb. 2025

Sephora is its the biggest wholesale deal so far: The beauty retailer carries some exclusive scents, including Carnivale, a fragrance that sells for $102 and blends together juicy mango, sandalwood and creamy vanilla. —Melissa Repko, CNBC, 14 Feb. 2025

Plus, Tracee Ellis Ross selected its subtle jasmine, bergamot and sandalwood scent to feel fresh without being overpowering. —Erin Parker, Allure, 22 Jan. 2025

Opening with juicy notes of peach skin and plum, the fragrance has a musky, woody base comprised of white moss, sandalwood, and an ambery synthetic fragrance called orcanox. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 8 Feb. 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