incense
UK: ɪnˈsɛns | US: ɪnˈsɛns
n. a substance that produces a pleasant smell when burned, often used in religious ceremonies
vt. to make someone very angry
The word "incense" originates from Latin incendere ("to set on fire"), composed of in- (upon) and cendere (a variant of candere, "to burn"). Initially, it referred to the act of burning aromatic substances, which later narrowed to the material itself. The verb form ("to anger") metaphorically extends from the idea of "inflaming" emotions, preserving the fiery connotation.
The temple was filled with the sweet smell of burning incense.
Her rude remarks incensed the entire audience.
He lit a stick of incense to create a calming atmosphere.
The politician’s false claims incensed his opponents.
Incense has been used in rituals for thousands of years.