Camphoraceous
/ˌkæm.fəˈreɪ.ʃəs/noun
Resembling or containing camphor, especially in smell or chemical composition.
Did you know?Camphor was prized across Asia and Europe for its cooling scent and preservative powers, so the word carries the history of a substance once used in medicine, ritual, and embalming alike.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
κάμφορα (kámphora)
“Camphor, the fragrant crystalline substance”
Medieval Latin
Latin
camphora
“Camphor”
Old French
French
camphre
“Camphor”
16th Century
English
camphor
“Camphor, especially as a medicinal or aromatic substance”
18th Century
English
camphoraceous
“Having the qualities or smell of camphor”
Explore more surprising origins