benzoin

noun

• 1 (also gum benzoin) a fragrant gum resin obtained from a tropical tree of eastern Asia, used in medicines, perfumes, and incense. Also called gum benjamin.

  • This is obtained from several species of the genus Styrax, family Styracaceae, in particular S. benzoin

• 2 Chemistry a white crystalline aromatic ketone present in gum benzoin.

  • Alternative name: 2-hydroxy-1,2-diphenylethanone; chemical formula: C₆H₅CHOHCOC₆H₅