What is "cinnamaldehyde"

n. (context organic compound English) The aromatic aldehyde C₆H₅-CH=CH-CHO that is responsible for the aroma of cinnamon

Cinnamaldehyde is an organic compound with the formula CHCH=CHCHO. Occurring as both cis- and trans isomers, it gives cinnamon its flavor and odor. It is a flavonoid that is naturally synthesized by the shikimate pathway. This pale yellow, viscous liquid occurs in the bark of cinnamon trees and other species of the genus Cinnamomum. The essential oil of cinnamon bark is about 98% cinnamaldehyde.