Benzoin

2 definitions found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Benzoin \Ben*zoin"\ (b[e^]n*zoin"), n. [Cf. F. benjoin, Sp.
     benjui, Pg. beijoin; all fr. Ar. lub[=a]n-j[=a]w[imac]
     incense form Sumatra (named Java in Arabic), the first
     syllable being lost. Cf. {Benjamin}.]
  
     Note: [Called also {benjamin}.]


     1. A resinous substance, dry and brittle, obtained from the
        {Styrax benzoin}, a tree of Sumatra, Java, etc., having a
        fragrant odor, and slightly aromatic taste. It is used in
        the preparation of benzoic acid, in medicine, and as a
        perfume.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. A white crystalline substance, {C14H12O2}, obtained from
        benzoic aldehyde and some other sources.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     3. (Bot.) The spicebush ({Lindera benzoin}).
        [1913 Webster]
  
     {Flowers of benzoin}, benzoic acid. See under {Benzoic}.
        [1913 Webster]

From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:

  benzoin
       n 1: gum resin used especially in treating skin irritation [syn:
            {gum benzoin}, {benjamin}, {gum benjamin}, {asa dulcis}]
       2: used in some classifications for the American spicebush and
          certain other plants often included in the genus Lindera
          [syn: {genus Benzoin}]