menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl 

-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

The whiskey features aromas of typical rye spices—cinnamon, clove and nutmeg—along with black tea, menthol and dark honey. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025

Fragrant additives like cinnamon or mint, and ostensibly soothing ingredients like camphor and menthol, may also irritate our lips rather than protect them. —Mark Hay, Popular Science, 13 Aug. 2025

The agency said the company can sell its original e-cigarette device and its refill cartridges in tobacco and menthol flavors. —Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 17 July 2025

The whiskey is much less sweet than other bourbons in that portfolio, with drying tannic notes complemented by red berries and cherry, followed by some menthol and a bit of grass on the finish. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 9 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

German, ultimately from Latin mentha mint

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl 

-ˌthōl

: a white soothing substance from oils of mint

Medical Definition

menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl  -ˌthōl 

: 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)