limonene

noun

lim·​o·​nene ˈli-mə-ˌnēn How to pronounce limonene (audio)
: a widely distributed terpene hydrocarbon C10H16 that occurs in essential oils (as of oranges or lemons) and has a lemon odor

Examples of limonene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web One full dropper will help ease your mind with an enhanced blend of relaxing terpenes (limonene, nerolidol, and myrcene) after a long day. Carol Lee, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2024 For instance, strains rich in myrcene may offer a fruity or musky flavor experience, while those high in limonene might provide a zesty or citrusy sensation. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 29 Aug. 2023 Additionally, terpenes, a class of plant molecules that are responsible for the aroma of everything from citrus oils (limonene, for ex- ample) to flowers (the geraniol in geraniums) to cannabis and hemp (myrcene is the most common) may also give our brain a boost. Brian Underwood, Women's Health, 4 Sep. 2023 For example, adding myrcene terpene may promote relaxation and sedation while limonene terpene could provide an uplifting and energizing effect. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 31 Aug. 2023 By working together with other compounds such as terpenes like linalool or limonene, full-spectrum CBD oil may help promote a sense of tranquility without inducing drowsiness. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 4 Sep. 2023 These strains tend to have higher levels of limonene, a terpene known for its mood-enhancing properties. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 31 Aug. 2023 Others might add specific terpenes like limonene or myrcene to enhance relaxation or promote focus. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 18 Aug. 2023 Common ones include myrcene, limonene, pinene, and caryophyllene. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 11 Aug. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'limonene.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from French limon lemon, from Middle French

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of limonene was in 1845

Dictionary Entries Near limonene

Cite this Entry

“Limonene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limonene. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

limonene

noun
lim·​o·​nene ˈlim-ə-ˌnēn How to pronounce limonene (audio)
: a liquid terpene hydrocarbon C10H16 that has an odor like a lemon, exists in dextrorotatory, levorotatory, and racemic forms, and occurs in many essential oils compare dipentene

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