coumarin

or cu·ma·rin

[ koo-muh-rin ]

noun

1. a fragrant crystalline substance, C 9 H 6 O 2 , obtained from the tonka bean, sweet clover, and certain other plants or prepared synthetically, used chiefly in soaps and perfumery.

coumarin

/ ˈkuːmərɪn /

noun

1. a white vanilla-scented crystalline ester, used in perfumes and flavourings and as an anticoagulant. Formula: C 9 H 6 O 2

coumarin

/ ko̅o̅′mər-ĭn /

1. A fragrant crystalline compound extracted from several plants, such as tonka beans and sweet clover, or produced synthetically. Coumarin and its derivatives are widely used in perfumes, as anticoagulants, and as rodenticides. Chemical formula: C 9 H 6 O 2 .

Derived Forms

• ˈcoumaric, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of coumarin¹

1820–30; < French coumarine, equivalent to coumar ( ou ) tonka-bean tree (< Spanish cumarú < Portuguese < Tupi cumaru ) + -ine -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of coumarin¹

C19: from French coumarine, from coumarou tonka-bean tree, from Spanish cumarú, from Tupi

Example Sentences

If coumarin is present, a brown, precipitate will form, and if stirred with a rod it will collect in dark green flecks.

From Project Gutenberg

Good hay should come out green and with the odour of coumarin—to which is due the scent of new-mown hay.

From Project Gutenberg

We may here include various coumarin and benzo-γ-pyrone derivatives.

From Project Gutenberg

Coumarin, an extract from tonka beans, may be used in making the extract.

From Project Gutenberg

Coumarin, a white crystalline product found in Tonka beans, and prepared synthetically from salicylic acid.

From Project Gutenberg