noun
- a waxy substance obtained from the head of sperm whales, formerly used in making candles, ointments, and cosmetics
Usage: historical; whaling industry
Examples
- Spermaceti candles were prized for their bright, smokeless flame.
- The whaling industry harvested spermaceti from the heads of sperm whales.
- High-quality spermaceti was more expensive than ordinary whale oil.
- Apothecaries used spermaceti in medicinal ointments and salves.
- The decline of whaling led to synthetic substitutes for spermaceti.
- Spermaceti was considered the finest material for luxury candles.