citronella
noun
cit·ro·nel·la
ˌsi-trə-ˈne-lə 
: either of two lemon-scented grasses (Cymbopogon nardus and C. winterianus) of southern Asia that yield an oil used in perfumery and as an insect repellent
also
: its oil
Examples of citronella in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Find blankets and pillows to keep you and your guests cozy, and make sure to stock up on plenty of bug spray, bug-repellent fans, and essential oils (citronella and lavender work well) to keep your summer evenings pest-free.
—
Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Apr. 2025
Try candles or sprays scented with citronella, lemon, or vanilla to ward them off.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 16 Mar. 2025
Essential Oils Some of the best oils to repel rats include peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender.
—Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2024
Gaiman put out a couple of citronella candles, lit them, and got into the bath.
—Lila Shapiro, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2025
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Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Apr. 2025
Try candles or sprays scented with citronella, lemon, or vanilla to ward them off.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 16 Mar. 2025
Essential Oils Some of the best oils to repel rats include peppermint, eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender.
—Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2024
Gaiman put out a couple of citronella candles, lit them, and got into the bath.
—Lila Shapiro, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for citronella
Cite this Entry
“Citronella.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/citronella. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
citronella
noun
cit·ro·nel·la
ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə
: a lemon-scented oil obtained from a grass of southern Asia and used in perfumes and as an insect repellent
Medical Definition
citronella
noun
cit·ro·nel·la
ˌsi-trə-ˈnel-ə
1
2
: a fragrant grass (Cymbopogon nardus) of southern Asia that yields citronella oil
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