camphor

noun

cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C10H16O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used as a liniment and mild topical analgesic in medicine, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent
also : any of several similar compounds (such as some terpene alcohols and ketones)
camphoraceous adjective

Examples of camphor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Avoid ingredients like alcohol, camphor, glycolic acid, fragrances, lactic acid, menthol, sodium lauryl sulfate, or urea. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024 The 6 Best Motion Sensor Lights of 2024, According to Testing Mothballs, camphor, and ammonia should not be used outdoors as animal repellents. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2024 The polish is made without harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, resin, and camphor. Lauren Finney Harden, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2024 These products contain lidocaine, menthol, capsaicin, and camphor to cool, heat, or numb the affected back area. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 1 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for camphor 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English caumfre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin camphora, from Arabic kāfūr, from Malay kapur

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near camphor

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

camphor

noun
cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy fragrant compound obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used in medicine and as an insect repellent

Medical Definition

camphor

noun
cam·​phor ˈkam(p)-fər How to pronounce camphor (audio)
: a tough gummy volatile aromatic crystalline compound C10H16O obtained especially from the wood and bark of the camphor tree and used topically as a liniment and mild analgesic, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent
also : any of several similar compounds (as some terpene alcohols and ketones)
camphoric adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on camphor

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