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

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

It can be used as a garden shed, a place to stash patio must-haves like citronella candles and fold-up umbrellas, or a utility space to store bikes and athletic equipment. —Shea Simmons, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Sep. 2024

For example, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District says citronella candles are effective at repelling mosquitoes only in the immediate radius around the candle, and only in the absence of a breeze. —Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

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