Etymology Map
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Incense

3 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means a substance burned for its sweet smell

Where does the word "incense" come from? It comes from Latin incendere, passing through Old French before entering English (1200s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
incendere
Latin · ancient
"to set on fire"
the root of 'incendiary'
2
Stage 2 of 3
encens
Old French · medieval
"burnt aromatic"
used in church rituals
3
Stage 3 of 3
incense
English · 1200s
"fragrant smoke"
the verb 'incensed', enraged, keeps the burning sense
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Read the full story

Incense’s story begins in Latin: incendere meant “to set on fire.” The root of 'incendiary'. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as encens. Used in church rituals. It reached English by 1200s as incense. The verb 'incensed', enraged, keeps the burning sense. Today, incense means a substance burned for its sweet smell.