menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl How to pronounce menthol (audio)
-ˌthōl
1
: a crystalline alcohol C10H20O that occurs especially in mint oils and has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint
2
menthols plural : mentholated cigarettes

Examples of menthol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are several topical analgesic (pain-relieving) creams that contain turmeric and other ingredients like menthol, camphor, and methyl salicylate. Rebeca Schiller, Verywell Health, 16 May 2025 The whiskey is sweet and herbal, featuring honey, vanilla, caramel, seasoned oak, menthol, and mint. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025 Redolent of camphor and menthol, Tiger Balm was first developed in the late 19th century and is used to relieve ailments from muscle aches to colds and headaches. Claire Wang, NBC news, 23 Apr. 2025 Infused with menthol, these drops work quickly to numb the throat and open nasal passages. Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for menthol

Word History

Etymology

German, ultimately from Latin mentha mint

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of menthol was in 1862

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Cite this Entry

“Menthol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/menthol. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

menthol

noun
men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl How to pronounce menthol (audio)
-ˌthōl
: a white soothing substance from oils of mint

Medical Definition

menthol

noun
: a crystalline alcohol C10H20O that occurs especially in mint oils, has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint, and is used in flavoring and in medicine (as locally to relieve pain, itching, and nasal congestion)

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