eucalyptus

American  

[yoo-kuh-lip-tuhs] / ˌyu kəˈlɪp təs /

Also eucalypt

noun

plural

eucalypti, eucalyptuses

1. any of numerous often tall trees belonging to the genus Eucalyptus, of the myrtle family, native to Australia and adjacent islands, having aromatic evergreen leaves that are the source of medicinal oils and heavy wood used as timber.

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eucalyptus British  

/ ˌjuːkəˈlɪptəs, ˈjuːkəˌlɪpt /

noun

1. any myrtaceous tree of the mostly Australian genus Eucalyptus, such as the blue gum and ironbark, widely cultivated for the medicinal oil in their leaves ( eucalyptus oil ), timber, and ornament

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Other Word Forms

• eucalyptic adjective

Etymology

Origin of eucalyptus

1800–10; < New Latin < Greek eu- eu- + kalyptós covered, wrapped, akin to kalýptein to cover

Example Sentences

Two huge eucalyptus trees scented the air and cast shade against the flat blue sky.

From Literature

The same mechanism explains why menthol, eucalyptus, and related compounds create a cooling feeling even when the temperature has not actually dropped.

From Science Daily

Common examples include species of acacia, eucalyptus, poplar, and pine.

From Science Daily

Outside, cantilevered decks and platforms overlook a lap pool, spa, sauna and cabana shrouded in eucalyptus, sycamore, oak and bamboo.

From Los Angeles Times

And to me the sharp tang of oregano oil and eucalyptus smells nice.

From Literature