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

Tea tree oil, peppermint oil, menthol, and witch hazel are four natural ingredients to watch out for. — Kara McGrath, Allure, 22 Oct. 2026

For Batch 2026-03, expect big notes of oak, vanilla, cherry pie, honey peanuts, black pepper, and a bit of menthol on the finish. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 20 Oct. 2026

Vapor rubs containing combinations of camphor, eucalyptus and menthol oils may provide some relief for nighttime cough and cold symptoms when applied to the chest and neck. — Andee Tagle, NPR, 15 Oct. 2026

Research has shown that menthols are more likely to addict young smokers and that a ban could avert 650,000 early deaths over four decades. — Jason McLure — The Examination, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026

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)