incense
UK[ˈɪnsens]US[ˈɪnsens]
n
A substance that produces a pleasant smell when burned, used especially in religious ceremonies.
v
To make someone very angry.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
cense
in
in, on, into, towards
cense
Etymology
The word 'incense' originates from the Latin verb 'incendere', meaning 'to set on fire' or 'to burn'. This Latin term is a compound of the prefix 'in-' (in, on) and the verb 'candere' (to burn, to glow, related to 'candle'). The noun form entered English via Old French 'encens', referring specifically to the aromatic substance that is burned. The verb meaning 'to make angry' developed later in the 15th century, metaphorically extending from the idea of 'inflaming' or 'setting fire to' someone's passions.
Analysis
Structure: in + cense
- in: Latin origin, a prefix meaning 'in, on, into, towards'.
- cense: From Latin 'candere' (to burn, to glow), via Old French 'encenser'. In this word, it functions as the root conveying the core meaning of burning.
Examples
The scent of sandalwood incense filled the quiet temple.
His arrogant remarks completely incensed the audience.
She lit some incense to create a calming atmosphere in the room.