Cense
/sɛns/noun
To perfume or incense by burning aromatic substances, especially in a ceremonial context.
Did you know?The word 'cense' is derived from the Latin 'incensare,' meaning to set on fire, linking it to ancient rites of purification and communication with the gods.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
incensum
“Burnt offering or something that is burned, often in religious rites.”
Old French
Old French
censier
“To perfume or burn incense in a ritualistic manner.”
Middle English
Middle English
censen
“To make fragrant or to burn incense.”
Modern English
English
cense
“To perfume with incense, typically in a ceremonial context.”
Explore more surprising origins