noun
camphor
KAM-fer/ˈkæmfər/
A strong-smelling crystalline substance obtained from certain trees or made synthetically.
White pieces of camphor sit beside moth repellent and a jar of medicinal rub.
Etymology
Malay kapur means 'camphor tree,' linking the substance's name to the trees that produce it. The proposed route through Sanskrit is uncertain.
In context
camphor is a clear white solid with a menthol-like nose tingling fragrance most people associate camphor with vapor rubs as it's often used as an ingredient in these products
More examples
- The laboratory sample contained synthetic camphor.
- The label listed camphor among the preparation's ingredients.
- The wood released a scent reminiscent of camphor.
Forms
camphor
Similar words
- menthol
- A different strong-smelling compound with a characteristic minty scent.