frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 
: a fragrant gum resin from trees of a genus (Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming
Examples of frankincense in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The oil-free formula feels almost like a primer—enriched by red algae, frankincense, and a meadowfoam oil complex to soothe, protect, and moisturize.
—
Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 11 June 2024
For example, frankincense may represent the element of fire, while earth may be represented by cinnamon bark oil.
—Essence, 29 May 2024
In fact, by pollinating flowers, bees help ensure a future population of frankincense trees (bees in turn get the sustenance to make healthy hives).
—Kate Donnelly, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024
Notes include Timur pepper, coriander/cilantro leaf, black tea, frankincense, violet, saffron, amber, patchouli and vanilla.
—Marques Harper, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for frankincense 
Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 11 June 2024
For example, frankincense may represent the element of fire, while earth may be represented by cinnamon bark oil.
—Essence, 29 May 2024
In fact, by pollinating flowers, bees help ensure a future population of frankincense trees (bees in turn get the sustenance to make healthy hives).
—Kate Donnelly, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024
Notes include Timur pepper, coriander/cilantro leaf, black tea, frankincense, violet, saffron, amber, patchouli and vanilla.
—Marques Harper, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for frankincense
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'frankincense.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Frankincense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frankincense. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s
: a fragrant gum resin from African or Arabian trees that is burned as incense
Medical Definition
frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s
: a fragrant gum resin from trees (genus Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming
called also olibanum
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