galbanum

noun

gal·​ba·​num ˈgal-bə-nəm How to pronounce galbanum (audio) ˈgȯl- How to pronounce galbanum (audio)
: a yellowish to green or brown aromatic bitter gum resin derived from any of several Asian plants (such as Ferula gummosa synonym F. galbaniflua) and used in incense

Examples of galbanum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fruity floral looked to the playfulness and confidence of the American West, told through notes like honeydew melon, strawberry leaf, white peony and galbanum to capture horseback rides under open skies and stargazing. — Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024 The comforting scent from Daylesford Organic combines earthy mushroom, galbanum and vetiver with notes of violet leaf and iris root. — Laia Farran Graves, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin, borrowed from Greek chalbánē, borrowed from a Northwest Semitic source; akin to Hebrew ḥelbĕnāh "galbanum"

Note: Perhaps a derivative from Semitic *ḥlab "milk," though sense connection is not clear.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of galbanum was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Galbanum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/galbanum. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

galbanum

noun
gal·​ba·​num ˈgal-bə-nəm How to pronounce galbanum (audio) ˈgȯl- How to pronounce galbanum (audio)
: a yellowish to green or brown aromatic bitter gum resin derived from several Asian plants (genus Ferula and especially F. galbaniflua) of the family Umbelliferae and that resembles asafetida and has been used for similar medicinal purposes
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