frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s 
: a fragrant gum resin from trees of a genus (Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming
Examples of frankincense in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Erik burns old ancient white sage and frankincense to clean out the bad energy and bring in good energy during the event.
—
Genaro Molina, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2025
Besides the digital detox, there’s a jet lag revival massage that uses frankincense to reset circadian rhythms, and Chinese therapies that employ rhythmic compression techniques to establish a harmonious energy flow.
—Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
This three-piece moisturizer set features distinct scents—vetiver and bergamot, lavender and chamomile, and rose, neroli, and frankincense.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2025
Bonus points for the support from soothing botanicals like frankincense, gotu kola, white birch bark, and knotweed.
—Annie Blackman, Allure, 9 Apr. 2025
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Genaro Molina, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2025
Besides the digital detox, there’s a jet lag revival massage that uses frankincense to reset circadian rhythms, and Chinese therapies that employ rhythmic compression techniques to establish a harmonious energy flow.
—Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
This three-piece moisturizer set features distinct scents—vetiver and bergamot, lavender and chamomile, and rose, neroli, and frankincense.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2025
Bonus points for the support from soothing botanicals like frankincense, gotu kola, white birch bark, and knotweed.
—Annie Blackman, Allure, 9 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for frankincense
Cite this Entry
“Frankincense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frankincense. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s
: a fragrant gum resin from African or Arabian trees that is burned as incense
Medical Definition
frankincense
noun
frank·in·cense
ˈfraŋ-kən-ˌsen(t)s
: a fragrant gum resin from trees (genus Boswellia of the family Burseraceae) of Somalia and southern coastal Arabia that is an important incense resin and has been used in religious rites, perfumery, and embalming
called also olibanum
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