Incense

Pronunciation

• enPR: Ä­n'sÄ•ns, IPA: /ˈɪnsÉ›ns/

Origin

From Old French encens ("sweet-smelling substance") from Late Latin incensum ("burnt incense", literally something burnt), neuter past participle of incendō ("I set on fire"). Compare incendiary.

Noun

1. A perfume used in the rites of various religions.

Derived terms

• incense boat
• incense cedar

Full definition of incense

Verb

1. (transitive) To anger or infuriate.I think it would incense him to learn the truth.
2. (archaic) To incite, stimulate.
3. (transitive) To offer incense to.
4. (transitive) To perfume with, or as with, incense.
• MarstonIncensed with wanton sweetes.
5. (obsolete) To set on fire; to inflame; to kindle; to burn.
• ChapmanTwelve Trojan princes wait on thee, and labour to incense
  Thy glorious heap of funeral.