root used in perfumery crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "root used in perfumery crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ORRIS: A fragrant root from the iris plant, highly prized in perfumery for its powdery, floral, and woody notes.
7 Letters
VETIVER: A tall, fragrant grass whose roots are used to produce a heavy, earthy, and smoky essential oil, commonly found in perfumes, especially masculine fragrances.
More About "root used in perfumery crossword"
The world of perfumery relies heavily on natural ingredients, and roots play a crucial role in creating complex and long-lasting fragrances. The clue "root used in perfumery" often points to one of two highly regarded botanical sources: Orris or Vetiver, each contributing unique olfactory profiles to the perfumer's palette.
Orris root, derived from the rhizomes of various iris species, particularly Iris pallida and Iris germanica, is renowned for its delicate yet persistent violet-like aroma. This scent develops only after an extensive drying and aging process that can take several years. Its ability to act as a fixative and its soft, powdery notes make it an invaluable, albeit expensive, component in luxury perfumes, often adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Vetiver, on the other hand, comes from the roots of a densely tufted, perennial grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides). Its essential oil is distilled from the roots, yielding a deep, earthy, smoky, and slightly woody fragrance. Vetiver is a classic base note, providing an anchor for lighter, more volatile aromas and contributing a sense of groundedness and masculinity to many compositions. Both Orris and Vetiver exemplify the intricate art of perfumery, transforming humble roots into captivating scents.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "root used in perfumery," consider if the wording implies a specific type of plant (e.g., a flower's root vs. a grass's root) or a dominant fragrance note (e.g., powdery vs. earthy).
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While common answers like ORRIS are primary, experienced solvers know to also consider less common but equally valid botanical terms like VETIVER, especially if the letter count doesn't match the first thought.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the known letters to narrow down possibilities. For instance, if the fifth letter of your root word is 'S', Orris becomes a strong candidate.
- Consider Industry-Specific Terms: Perfumery, botany, and culinary arts often have specific jargon. Familiarize yourself with common terms from various fields to expand your crossword vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orris root used for besides perfume?
Besides its primary use in fine fragrances, Orris root has been historically used in traditional medicine, as a fixative for potpourri, and even in some spirits like gin for its earthy notes. It can also be found in certain cosmetics and even toothpastes for its scent and properties.
Why is Orris root so expensive?
Orris root's high cost is due to its labor-intensive cultivation, the lengthy drying and aging process (up to 5 years) required for its fragrance to develop, and the small yield of essential oil from a large amount of raw material. Only after this long process does it develop its characteristic violet-like aroma.
Are there other roots commonly used in perfumery?
While Orris is uniquely prized for its powdery notes, other roots are also significant. Vetiver root is extensively used for its earthy, smoky, and woody scent. Angelica root is another, valued for its musky and green undertones. Ginger and turmeric roots are sometimes used in niche perfumery for their spicy facets.