Definition

Noun: A white, crystalline substance with a strong aromatic odor, obtained from the wood of the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) or produced synthetically. It is used in medicinal products, as a plasticizer, and as an insect repellent.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The chest was lined with cedar and camphor to protect the clothes from moths.
  • Traditional ointments sometimes contain camphor for its cooling sensation.
  • The distinct smell of camphor filled the medicinal cabinet.

Advanced Usage

• "Camphor ball": A small ball of camphor, historically used to repel moths from stored clothing.
  • She placed camphor balls in the winter wardrobe to protect the woolens.
• "Camphor ice": A solidified preparation containing camphor, used to soothe skin irritations like chapped lips.
  • He applied camphor ice to his dry, cracked hands.

Variants and Related Words

• Camphoraceous (adj): Having the smell or qualities of camphor.
  • The plant's leaves had a sharp, camphoraceous scent.
• Camphor tree (n): The evergreen tree () from which natural camphor is distilled.
  • The large camphor tree provided ample shade for the courtyard.

Synonyms

• Mothball (when referring to its use as a repellent).
• Crystalline compound (in a chemical context).

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Camphor oil: An essential oil derived from the camphor tree.
  • Camphor oil is used in aromatherapy and topical rubs.
• Camphorated oil: A liniment made by dissolving camphor in a carrier oil.
  • Camphorated oil was once a common remedy for muscle aches.

Noun

1. a resin obtained from the camphor tree; used in making celluloid and liniment