peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpe-pər-ˌmint 

-mənt,

 in rapid speech  ˈpep-mənt,

 or  -ᵊm-ənt

1

a

: a pungent and aromatic mint (Mentha piperita) with dark green lanceolate leaves and whorls of small pink flowers in spikes

b

: any of several mints (such as M. arvensis) that are related to the peppermint

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

pepperminty

ˈpe-pər-ˌmin-tē 

adjective

Illustration of peppermint

• peppermint 1a

Examples of peppermint in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils—like peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus—can create a protective barrier for your jack-o’-lantern. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Oct. 2024

These particular toothbrush protectors are BPA-free and include tablets with orange and peppermint essential oils to keep brushes fresh for up to three months. —Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2024

The scrub also contains coconut oil to moisturize the scalp and prevent dryness and flakes, as well as a peppermint, spearmint, and tea tree oil complex that lends a cooling effect that’s great for soothing itchiness and irritation. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 3 Oct. 2024

Home remedies like peppermint tea, aloe vera gel, garlic, salt water rinses, and tea tree oil can provide temporary relief. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpep-ər-ˌmint 

-mənt

1

: a mint with stalks of small usually pink flowers that is the source of an oil which is sharp in flavor and is used especially to flavor candies

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

Medical Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint -ˌmint, -mənt 

: a mint of the genus Mentha (M. piperita) with dark green leaves and spikes of small pink flowers from which an aromatic oil is obtained

pepperminty

ˈpep-ər-ˌmint-ē 

adjective