noun
- A colorless liquid aldehyde compound found in citronella oil and lemongrass, used in perfumes, insect repellents, and flavorings.
Usage: chemistry; technical
Examples
- Citronellal is the primary active ingredient in many natural mosquito repellents.
- The fragrance of citronella candles comes largely from citronellal.
- Citronellal is extracted from citronella grass for use in the cosmetics industry.
- Many insect-repellent products contain citronellal as a key component.
- Citronellal has a fresh, lemony scent that makes it popular in perfumery.