Heliotropin

/ˌhiːliəˈtroʊpɪn/ noun

Definition

A chemical compound, also known as piperonal, found in heliotrope plants and other sources, used in perfumery and flavoring with a vanilla-like scent.

Etymology

From 'heliotrope' with the chemical suffix '-in,' indicating an organic compound or substance. The suffix pattern follows nomenclature for plant-derived chemicals.

Kelly Says

Heliotropin smells like a blend of vanilla and cherry, and it's so commonly used in perfumes that you've probably smelled it without knowing it was named after a sun-tracking flower.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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