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

Rosemary oil invigorates the scalp for healthier, thicker, stronger-looking hair, while menthol delivers a deeply satisfying, icy-cool sensation that instantly refreshes the roots. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 27 May 2026

Add a splash of water, and the bourbon opens to reveal orange oil, dark chocolate, roasted peanut, and even a hint of menthol or eucalyptus. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026

Try Topical Peppermint Oil Scientific evidence, albeit limited, suggests that when applied to the skin, peppermint oil can help ease headaches, likely through its active compound, menthol. —Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 23 May 2026

While fruity and sweet flavors can be appealing to people who smoke, tobacco and menthol flavors are sometimes more popular among older people who have a history of smoking tobacco. —Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, The Conversation, 18 May 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)