over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er ˌō-vər-ṯẖə-ˈkau̇n-tər 

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Examples of over-the-counter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Prescription or over-the-counter anti-nausea or constipation medications can also be a good way to alleviate some of these issues. —Julia Ries, Health, 13 May 2025

This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as other supplements. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 13 May 2025

This applies to both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, like pain relievers, allergy pills, and cold medicine. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2025

Not to mention viral over-the-counter products can’t help you with potential side effects: Nutrofol, for example, can perpetuate liver injury. —Maria Yagoda, Vox, 9 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for over-the-counter

• counter
• encounter

Kids Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold legally without a prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Medical Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter painkiller

Legal Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without a prescription

over-the-counter drugs