Glossary
The definitions here are geared towards their general usage in the perfumery industry. Comments and discussions are invited from readers about words they would like to see included, clarified or alternative definitions given.
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B. is for Ice-BERG
Balsam. Viscous excretions from trees or shrubs plants that seep when the plants outer layers are cut or injured. Sticky materials which give a resinous sweet-woody odour.
Balsamic. Rich, sweet, resinous and warm notes associated with Benzoin, Tolu and Peru balsams. Balsamic notes predominate in the Oriental group of perfumes such as Shalimar, Obsession, Opium, Youth Dew etc.
Body. The main fragrance theme -- the middle or "heart" of a perfume. Also used to describe a fragrance that is well-rounded or full.
Botanical Name. Refers to the Latin name of the plant in the biological classification system. A botanical name is composed of the genus followed by the species.
Bouquet. A mixture of flower notes.
Bouquetting. The rounding off and harmonising of a perfume or flavour.
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