citronella

[si-truh-nel-uh]

noun

1. a fragrant grass, Cymbopogon nardus, of southern Asia, cultivated as the source of citronella oil.

2. citronella oil.

citronella

/ ˌsɪtrəˈnɛlə /

noun

1. Also called: citronella grass. a tropical Asian grass, Cymbopogon (or Andropogon ) nardus, with bluish-green lemon-scented leaves

2. Also called: citronella oil. the yellow aromatic oil obtained from this grass, used in insect repellents, soaps, perfumes, etc

citronella

1. The pale-yellow, lemon-scented oil obtained from the leaves of a tropical Asian grass (Cymbopogon nardus), used in insect repellents and perfumes. Citronella consists primarily of an aldehyde of octane.

Word History and Origins

Origin of citronella¹

1855–60; < New Latin < French citronelle, equivalent to citron citron + -elle diminutive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of citronella¹

C19: New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron lemon

Example Sentences

Alternatives to chemical-based sprays or creams include repellents with plant-based ingredients such as citronella, lavender and peppermint.

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For example, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District says citronella candles are effective at repelling mosquitoes only in the immediate radius around the candle, and only in the absence of a breeze.

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These include citronella and a few other geranium varieties, marigolds, lemongrass, catnip, certain types of mint, lavender and lantana.

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That being said, if you’re going to the playground with your child for 30 minutes, Leal says that citronella spray — which is distilled from grass varieties — should work just fine.

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Also consider having citronella candles to keep insects at bay while adding a pleasant scent to the air.

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