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 ordinance covers menthol cigarettes, a product long marketed to Black customers. —Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 14 Oct. 2025

The campaign with Thibodeaux, a defensive lineman for the New York Giants, will highlight his work on youth menthol health as founder of the JREAM Foundation. —Evan Clark, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

This set of six includes scents like lavender, menthol and eucalyptus, vanilla and orange, grapefruit, watermelon, and peppermint, each made with natural essential oils. —L. Daniela Alvarez, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Sep. 2025

Ladybugs dislike scents such as citronella, peppermint, menthol, citrus, and clove. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 25 Sep. 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)