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

These blends typically feature invigorating notes like eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, cypress, and cardamom to help sharpen focus and wake up the senses. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 9 Jan. 2026

Natural deterrents like peppermint oil and ultrasonic repellents can also help to keep mice out. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 7 Jan. 2026

Choosing a Peppermint Oil Supplement There are several peppermint supplements on the market, some of which are marketed directly at people with IBS. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 7 Jan. 2026

This overnight treatment has ceramides to support your lips’ natural moisture barrier and a subtle peppermint flavor for a fresh tingle. —Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for peppermint

• fingerprint
• overprint
• blueprint
• footprint
• imprint
• misprint
• newsprint
• nonprint
• preprint
• reprint
• clint
• dint

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