citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈne-lə How to pronounce citronella (audio)
: 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 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 Rodent Deterrent Essential oils like peppermint, citronella, and cinnamon are often included in natural deterrents to repel mice and other rodents. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2024 These include citronella and a few other geranium varieties, marigolds, lemongrass, catnip, certain types of mint, lavender and lantana. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for citronella 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'citronella.' 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

New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of citronella was circa 1858

Dictionary Entries Near citronella

Cite this Entry

“Citronella.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/citronella. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

citronella

noun
cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə How to pronounce citronella (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce citronella (audio)
1
2
: a fragrant grass (Cymbopogon nardus) of southern Asia that yields citronella oil
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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