1
: an aromatic resinous exudate from mastic trees used chiefly in varnishes
2
: any of various pasty materials used as protective coatings or cements

Examples of mastic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Its formulation contains marine actives, which firm the skin while protecting it from UV light and free radicals; mastic, which smooths the skin and refines the appearance of pores; and hydrolyzed algae, which keeps excess oil at bay. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 12 July 2024 Lavender, myrtle, rosemary, and mastic keep the insects happy. Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English mastik, from Latin mastiche, from Greek mastichē, probably back-formation from mastichan

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near mastic

Cite this Entry

“Mastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastic. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

: a yellow or greenish substance that oozes from cuts in the bark of a southern European tree and is used in varnish

Medical Definition

: an aromatic resinous exudation obtained usually in the form of yellowish to greenish lustrous transparent brittle tears from incisions in a small southern European tree (Pistacia lentiscus) of the sumac family and used chiefly in varnishes (as for lining dental cavities)

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