citronella oil

noun

1. a light-yellowish pungent oil, distilled from citronella, used in the manufacture of liniment, perfume, and soap, and as an insect repellent.

Word History and Origins

Origin of citronella oil¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

It’s made with 100 percent natural beeswax, coconut oil, and equal parts peppermint, lemongrass, rosemary, and citronella oils.

From Outside Online

As I was bidding the Mahatma good night, he considerately handed me a bottle of citronella oil.

From Project Gutenberg