citronella

noun

cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈne-lə How to pronounce citronella (audio)
: a lemon-scented grass (Cymbopogon nardus) of southern Asia that yields an oil used in perfumery and as an insect repellent
also : its oil

Examples of citronella in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web For example, the Vector Control District says citronella candles are effective at repelling mosquitoes only in the immediate radius around the candle, and only in the absence of a breeze. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2024 These include citronella, a few other geranium varieties, plus marigolds, lemongrass, catnip, certain types of mint, lavender, and lantana. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2024 While electric insect zappers range from about $18 to $60, pure citronella oil retails for $9. Sydney Maki, Sacramento Bee, 31 Jan. 2024 Strongly scented oils like lemon eucalyptus or citronella can be effective, non-chemical alternatives. Steven Rowe, Health, 28 Aug. 2023 The candles aren't just for the scent, though—their thyme or geranium aroma naturally repels mosquitos as well, eliminating the need for citronella altogether. Halee Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2023 This is also why natural ingredients like eucalyptus, lemon, and citronella are effective. Steven Rowe, Health, 28 Aug. 2023 In theory, the combination of eucalyptus, chili, cloves, cayenne pepper, neem, tea tree oil, citronella and beeswax creates an odor that sharks dislike and will seek to avoid if applied to a surfboard. Khristopher J. Brooks, CBS News, 7 July 2023 Try putting citronella candles in them for a buggy night. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'citronella.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from French citronnelle lemon balm, from citron

First Known Use

circa 1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of citronella was circa 1858

Dictionary Entries Near citronella

Cite this Entry

“Citronella.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/citronella. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

citronella

noun
cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə How to pronounce citronella (audio)
: a lemon-scented oil obtained from a grass of southern Asia and used in perfumes and as an insect repellent

Medical Definition

citronella

noun
cit·​ro·​nel·​la ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə How to pronounce citronella (audio)
1
2
: a fragrant grass (Cymbopogon nardus) of southern Asia that yields citronella oil
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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