storax

 
Pronunciation: /ˈstɔːraks/
(also styrax)

noun

  • 1 [mass noun] a rare fragrant gum resin obtained from an East Mediterranean tree, sometimes used in medicine, perfumery, and incense.
  • (Levant or liquid storax) a liquid balsam obtained from the Asian liquidambar tree.
  • 2a tropical or subtropical tree or shrub with showy white flowers in drooping clusters.
    • Genus Styrax, family Styracaceae: several species, in particular S. officinalis, from which storax resin is obtained

Origin:

late Middle English: from Latin, from a variant of Greek sturax