storax
noun
sto·rax ˈstȯr-ˌaks 
1
a
: a fragrant balsam obtained from the bark of an Asian tree (Liquidambar orientalis) of the witch-hazel family that is used as an expectorant and sometimes in perfumery
called also Levant storax
b
: a balsam from the sweet gum that is similar to storax
2
: any of a genus (Styrax of the family Styracaceae, the storax family) of trees or shrubs with usually hairy leaves and white flowers in drooping racemes compare benzoin
Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Late Latin, alteration of Latin styrax, from Greek
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Phrases Containing storax
Medical Definition
storax
noun
sto·rax ˈstō(ə)r-ˌaks, ˈstȯ(ə)r-
1
: a fragrant balsam obtained from the bark of an Asian tree of the genus Liquidambar (L. orientalis) that is used as an expectorant and sometimes in perfumery
called also Levant storax, liquid storax
2
: a balsam from the sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) that is similar to storax
called also American storax, liquidambar