Aromatherapy
/ˌær.ə.məˈθer.ə.pi/noun
The use of fragrant essential oils for relaxation, wellness, or treatment.
Did you know?The word is a 20th-century coinage, but its roots reach back to Greek aroma, meaning a spice or sweet-smelling substance, and therapeia, meaning care or treatment.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἄρωμα (árōma)
“a spice, seasoning, or sweet-smelling substance”
Ancient Greek
Greek
θεραπεία (therapeía)
“service, care, attendance, or treatment”
Late 19th Century
French
aromathérapie
“a modern coined term for treatment using aromatic substances”
Early 20th Century
English
aromatherapy
“the therapeutic use of fragrant oils and plant essences”
Modern English
English
aromatherapy
“the use of fragrant essential oils for relaxation or treatment”
Explore more surprising origins