sandalwood

noun

san·​dal·​wood ˈsan-dᵊl-ˌwu̇d 

1

: the compact close-grained fragrant yellowish heartwood of a parasitic tree (Santalum album of the family Santalaceae, the sandalwood family) of southern Asia much used in ornamental carving and cabinetwork

also : the tree that yields this wood

2

: any of various trees other than the sandalwood some of which yield dyewoods

also : the fragrant wood of such a tree

Examples of sandalwood in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The combination of bergamot, neroli, jasmine, Haitian Vetiver, and sandalwood creates a rich, intoxicating fragrance that lasts for hours. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 1 Oct. 2026

The Twilly d’Hermès Eau de Parfum is sensual yet spirited, with notes of ginger, tuberose and sandalwood. — Tim Chan, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Timor was fought over by the Dutch and Portuguese—a battle rooted in the sandalwood and spice trade—resulting in its split into East and West. — Michelle Jana Chan, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Sep. 2026

Vendetta Donna blends floral, gourmand and woody notes, with juicy red orange nectar and creamy sandalwood. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

sandal sandalwood (from Middle English, from Anglo-French sandali, from Medieval Latin sandalum, from Late Greek santalon, ultimately from Sanskrit candana, of Dravidian origin; akin to Tamil cāntu sandalwood tree) + wood entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1511, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sandalwood

• sandalwood oil

Kids Definition

sandalwood

noun

san·​dal·​wood -ˌwu̇d 

: the close-grained fragrant yellowish wood of an Asian tree often used in carving and cabinetwork

also : the tree that yields this wood