mastic

(mastik)

noun

  1. a yellowish resin obtained from a small Mediterranean evergreen tree (Pistacia lentiscus) of the cashew family, used as an astringent and in making varnish, adhesives, etc.
  2. the tree
    in full mastic tree
  3. any of various pasty substances used as adhesives, sealants, etc.

Origin: ME mastik < OFr mastic < LL mastichum < L mastiche < Gr mastichē, akin to mastichan: see masticate

See mastic in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. The mastic tree.
  2. The aromatic resin of the mastic tree, used especially in varnishes, lacquers, adhesives, and condiments and as an astringent.
  3. A pastelike cement used in highway construction, especially one made with powdered lime or brick and tar.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English, mastic resin

Origin: , from Old French mastich

Origin: , from Latin mastichum, mastichē

Origin: , from Greek mastikhē, chewing gum, mastic

Origin: , from mastikhān, to grind the teeth

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