How Do You Spell ELEMI?

Pronunciation: [ˈɛlɪmˌi] (IPA)

The word "elemi" is a botanical name for an aromatic resin extracted from trees in the genus Canarium. Its spelling can be a bit tricky, as it is pronounced [ˈɛlɨmi] with a short "e" sound at the beginning followed by a schwa sound in the second syllable. The "m" at the end is pronounced as /m/, making it a silent letter at the end of the word. While its spelling may not be familiar to everyone, elemi resin has been used in traditional medicine and as a fragrant ingredient in perfumes and incense.

ELEMI Meaning and Definition

  1. Elemi is a noun that refers to a resin derived from various trees of the genus Canarium, especially Canarium luzonicum, found in the Philippines. It is an aromatic and viscous substance that is commonly used in the preparation of perfumes, soaps, and varnishes.

    The word "elemi" originates from the Arabic word "el-lam" which means scent or fragrance. This resinous substance is known for its pleasant and distinctive fragrance, which is often described as balsamic, citrusy, and spicy. It possesses a warm and resinous aroma that is reminiscent of frankincense, with hints of lemon and pepper.

    Elemi is typically obtained by making incisions or cuts on the bark of the Canarium trees, allowing the resin to slowly ooze out and harden on the trunk. The hardened resin is then collected and used for various applications. It can be steam distilled to extract essential oils or it can be used directly as a fragrance fixative in perfumes. Additionally, elemi resin is often used as an ingredient in incense blends and skincare products due to its antimicrobial properties and skin-soothing abilities.

    In summary, elemi is a fragrant resin obtained from Canarium trees, primarily found in the Philippines. Its aromatic qualities and diverse applications in the perfume, soap, and varnish industries make it a valuable ingredient in various products.

  2. Manila elemi, a fragrant resinous exudation from Canarium commune; employed in the preparation of stimulating plasters.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. A resinous substance obtained from several allied species of trees, brought from Ethiopia in masses of a yellowish colour.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ELEMI

  • wlemi
  • slemi
  • dlemi
  • rlemi
  • 4lemi
  • 3lemi
  • ekemi
  • epemi
  • eoemi
  • elwmi
  • elsmi
  • eldmi
  • elrmi
  • el4mi
  • el3mi
  • eleki
  • eleji
  • elemu
  • elemj

Etymology of ELEMI

The word "elemi" is derived from the Arabic term "al-lámi", which means "that which is resinous" or "incense". It was first used in English during the 16th century to refer to a type of fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Canarium, primarily Canarium luzonicum and Canarium album, indigenous to Southeast Asia. The resin is often used in perfumes, varnishes, and traditional medicines.

Similar spelling words for ELEMI

Plural form of ELEMI is ELEMIS

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