Azulene

/ˈæzjuˌliːn/ noun

Definition

A deep blue hydrocarbon compound found in certain essential oils and plants, used in cosmetics and medicine.

Etymology

From 'azul' (blue in Spanish/Portuguese, from Arabic 'azul') plus the chemical suffix '-ene' (indicating a hydrocarbon with a double bond). The color name comes from medieval trade routes where lapis lazuli dye was called 'azul.'

Kelly Says

Azulene is one of nature's most potent anti-inflammatory compounds—it's extracted from chamomile oil and is so effective that it's used in high-end skincare products that can cost hundreds of dollars an ounce!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.