essential oil

American  

noun

1. any of a class of volatile oils obtained from plants, possessing the odor and other characteristic properties of the plant, used chiefly in the manufacture of perfumes, flavors, and pharmaceuticals.

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essential oil British  

noun

1. any of various volatile organic oils present in plants, usually containing terpenes and esters and having the odour or flavour of the plant from which they are extracted: used in flavouring and perfumery Compare fixed oil See also oleoresin

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essential oil Scientific  

/ ĭ-sĕn′shəl /

1. Any of various volatile liquids, such as rose oil or lavender oil, that have a characteristic odor and are produced by plants. Essential oils are composed primarily of terpenes and of lesser quantities of alcohols, aldehydes, esters, phenols, and other compounds that impart particular odors or flavors. They are used to make perfumes, soaps, flavorings, and other products.

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Etymology

Origin of essential oil

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

With its earthy sweet scent, this essential oil also is used in the food industry and topically in various cosmetic preparations.

From Science Daily • Feb. 13, 2024

Switch between the sauna and the steam room, with the option to spritz the space with eucalyptus essential oil.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 20, 2024

One of the main attractions of the festival is a lavender essential oil distillation demonstration, usually run by Tina Kummerle, president of Highland Springs Resort, which houses 123 Farm.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2023

Another popular option is to use an electric essential oil diffuser.

From Washington Post • Mar. 15, 2023

The large oak table was covered with jars of tincture and vials of essential oil, which I cleared away.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover