n. a pale yellowish pungent oil distilled from citronella, used in the manufacture of liniment, perfume, and soap, and as an insect repellent. [1880–85]
citronella oil
citronella oil
[‚si·trə′nel·ə ′ȯil] (materials) A yellowish oil distilled from the leaves of either of two grasses, Cymbopogon nardus or C. winterianus; used as an insect repellent. Also known as Java citronella oil.MedicalSeecitronella