How Do You Spell OLIBANUM?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒlɪbˌanəm] (IPA)

Olibanum, also known as frankincense, is a resin that is harvested from the Boswellia tree. The word olibanum is spelled [o-luh-bey-nuhm] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with the short "o" sound, while the second syllable contains a short "uh" sound and a long "a" sound. The final syllable contains the same short "uh" sound as the second syllable, followed by the consonant "m." The spelling of olibanum reflects the word's origins in ancient Greek and Latin.

OLIBANUM Meaning and Definition

1. Olibanum, also known as frankincense, is a natural aromatic resin derived from trees belonging to the Boswellia genus. This term is commonly used in the field of botany and as a trade name for products containing this resin. Olibanum has been widely valued and used throughout history for its pleasing fragrance and various associated properties.

   The term "olibanum" originates from the Latin word "olibanum" and the Greek word "ολίβανος" (olíbanos), which means "frankincense." Olibanum is typically obtained by making incisions in the bark of Boswellia trees, primarily found in the Arabian Peninsula, Somalia, Ethiopia, and India. The resin exudes from these incisions and is collected after it solidifies.

   This resin possesses a sweet, balsamic fragrance, often described as woody with hints of citrus and pine. It is widely used as incense in religious and spiritual ceremonies, as well as for its aromatic properties in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy.

   Olibanum is also recognized for its medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used to alleviate various health conditions, including inflammation, pain, anxiety, and respiratory issues. Modern scientific research has supported these traditional uses, highlighting the resin's anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and even potential anticancer properties.

   In summary, olibanum refers to the resin obtained from Boswellia trees. It is cherished for its distinct scent and has found applications in various cultural, spiritual, and medicinal practices worldwide.

2. Oriental frankincense, a gum-resin from several trees of the genus Boswellia; has been used as a stimulant expectorant in bronchitis, and also as an emmenagogue.

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

3. A gum-resin of a bitterish taste, and aromatic; a kind of frankincense.

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

Common Misspellings for OLIBANUM

• ilibanum
• klibanum
• llibanum
• plibanum
• 0libanum
• 9libanum
• okibanum
• opibanum
• ooibanum
• olubanum
• oljbanum
• olkbanum
• olobanum
• ol9banum
• ol8banum
• olivanum
• olinanum
• olihanum
• oliganum

Etymology of OLIBANUM

The word "olibanum" derives from the Latin "olībanum", which in turn came from the Greek "olibanos". "Olibanos" had been borrowed from the Old Arabi "lubān", meaning "milk". This Old Arabi term referred to the fragrant resin or gum obtained from certain trees, particularly the Boswellia tree, which was milky in appearance. Over time, "lubān" evolved into "olibanum" in Latin, and the term is still commonly used to refer to frankincense, a well-known aromatic resin.

Similar spelling words for OLIBANUM

• olubunmi,
• Olpin,
• alpinum,
• ulpanim.