citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈne-lə 

: either of two lemon-scented grasses (Cymbopogon nardus and C. winterianus) of southern Asia that yield an oil used in perfumery and as an insect repellent

also : its oil

Examples of citronella in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Essential Oils Some of the best oils to repel rats include peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2024

Gaiman put out a couple of citronella candles, lit them, and got into the bath. —Lila Shapiro, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2025

Lady beetles dislike the smell of citronella oil, so it is recommended to spray it on warm and light color surfaces. —Jordan Green, The Tennessean, 25 Oct. 2024

Burn citronella candles and torches while enjoying the outdoors. —Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for citronella

• arabella
• bartonella
• bordetella
• cinderella
• columella
• isabella
• klebsiella
• legionella
• mozzarella
• pasteurella
• salmonella
• trichinella

Kids Definition

citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə 

: a lemon-scented oil obtained from a grass of southern Asia and used in perfumes and as an insect repellent

Medical Definition

citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə 

1

: citronella oil

2

: a fragrant grass (Cymbopogon nardus) of southern Asia that yields citronella oil