[syn: Benzoin, genus Benzoin]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
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]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
benzoin
n 1: gum resin used especially in treating skin irritation [syn:
benzoin, 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: Benzoin, genus Benzoin]