mineral spirits

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: a petroleum distillate that is used especially as a paint or varnish thinner

Examples of mineral spirits in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For metal pieces, use a washcloth and mineral spirits. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mineral spirits

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mineral spirits was in 1875

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Cite this Entry

“Mineral spirits.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mineral%20spirits. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.

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