a substance that produces a fragrant odor when burned
"The priest lit sticks of incense to fill the chapel with a sweet, smoky fragrance during the ceremony."
A perfume used in the rites of various religions.
"The priest lit sticks of incense to create a fragrant smoke during the religious ceremony."
In plain English: Incense is aromatic powder that people burn to make a room smell good and feel calm.
"The sweet smell of incense filled the quiet temple during morning prayers."
Usage: Use incense to describe aromatic substances burned during religious ceremonies or rituals, distinguishing it from non-burning perfumes like cologne. It is often paired with words such as altar, smoke, and worship when referring to its ceremonial context.
make furious
"The referee's harsh criticism managed to incense the entire crowd."
To anger or infuriate.
"The rude waiter's slow service really incensed the customer."
The word "incense" comes from the Old French encens, which originally meant a sweet-smelling substance used in rituals. It traveled into Middle English via Late Latin, where it literally described something that had been set on fire to create smoke and fragrance.