Definition

A chemical compound that has a sweet scent and is found in many plants; it is often used in perfumes and flavorings.

Example

The fragrance of the perfume was enhanced by the addition of cumarin.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cumarin?

Yeah, I think it's related to some plants, right?

Exactly! It's often found in sweet-smelling herbs.

That's interesting! I love learning about natural compounds.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cumarin originates from the French word 'coumarine', which is derived from the Latin 'cumula' (meaning heap or pile) and 'cumar' (meaning to smell). The word refers to a fragrant compound found in many plants, particularly in tonka beans and sweet clover, which gives it a distinctive scent.

Memory Tip

Think of the French word 'coumarine' and remember that cumarin is a fragrant compound that has a pleasant smell, much like the scent of flowers.

Visually Confused Words