styrax benzoin

Styrax \Sty"rax\, n. [L. styrax, storax, Gr. ?. See {Storax}.]
   1. (Bot.) A genus of shrubs and trees, mostly American or
      Asiatic, abounding in resinous and aromatic substances.
      {Styrax officinalis} yields storax, and {Styrax Benzoin}
      yields benzoin.
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   2. Same as {Storax}.
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Benzoin \Ben*zoin"\ (b[e^]n*zoin"), n. [Cf. F. benjoin, Sp.
   benjui, Pg. beijoin; all fr. Ar. lub[=a]n-j[=a]w[imac]
   incense form Sumatra (named Java in Arabic), the first
   syllable being lost. Cf. {Benjamin}.]

   Note: [Called also {benjamin}.]
   1. A resinous substance, dry and brittle, obtained from the
      {Styrax benzoin}, a tree of Sumatra, Java, etc., having a
      fragrant odor, and slightly aromatic taste. It is used in
      the preparation of benzoic acid, in medicine, and as a
      perfume.
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   2. A white crystalline substance, {C14H12O2}, obtained from
      benzoic aldehyde and some other sources.
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   3. (Bot.) The spicebush ({Lindera benzoin}).
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   {Flowers of benzoin}, benzoic acid. See under {Benzoic}.
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