citronellal

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​lal ˌsi-trə-ˈne-ˌlal How to pronounce citronellal (audio)
: a lemon-odored aldehyde C10H18O that is derived especially from citronella oil and is used in perfumery and as an insect repellent

Examples of citronellal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In a lab setting, citronellal has been found to repel bugs. Benjamin Whitacre, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Aug. 2022 Their oils contain at least 10 to 20 percent citronellal. Benjamin Whitacre, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Aug. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'citronellal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from New Latin citronella

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of citronellal was in 1890

Dictionary Entries Near citronellal

Cite this Entry

“Citronellal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/citronellal. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

citronellal

noun
cit·​ro·​nel·​lal -ˈnel-ˌal How to pronounce citronellal (audio)
: an aldehyde C10H18O with a lemony odor that is obtained especially from citronella oil and that is used in perfumery and as an insect repellent

More from Merriam-Webster on citronellal

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