tea tree

noun

1. a tall shrub or small tree, Leptospermum scoparium, of the myrtle family, native to New Zealand and Australia, having silky foliage when young, and bell-shaped, white flowers: often planted to prevent beach erosion.

tea tree

noun

1. any of various myrtaceous trees of the genus Leptospermum, of Australia and New Zealand, that yield an oil used as an antiseptic

Word History and Origins

Origin of tea tree¹

First recorded in 1750–60; so called from the use of its leaves as an infusion

Example Sentences

The aromatherapy head massage was a dry one, in which Nevins rubbed tingly-feeling tea tree oil into my scalp and then applied an electronic, cephalopod-like device, its multiple arms whirling away tension.

From Los Angeles Times

The aromatherapy head massage was a dry one, in which Nevins rubbed tingly feeling tea tree oil into my scalp and then applied an electronic, cephalopod-like device, its multiple arms whirling away tension.

From Los Angeles Times

Then I sanded the nail down and applied tea tree oil.

From Seattle Times

Zagorski also says that some plant-derived products are also known endocrine disruptors, lavender oil and tea tree oil being notable examples.

From National Geographic

This scrub from Folk Magick Botanicals has a gentle but soothing scent that mixes pine, tea tree and sandalwood and feels both luxurious and comforting.

From Los Angeles Times