petrolatum

noun

pet·​ro·​la·​tum ˌpe-trə-ˈlā-təm  -ˈlä- 

: petroleum jelly

Examples of petrolatum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The cream relies on petrolatum to form a protective seal that slows moisture loss, with sorbitol as a humectant to keep skin hydrated. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 19 Sep. 2026

While each formula is different, most diaper rash creams use zinc oxide or petrolatum to protect baby’s skin. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 Sep. 2026

Its heavy nature also causes oils to build up in pores, causing acne and breakouts, which other established moisturizing ingredients, like ceramides, petrolatum, squalene, glycerin and shea butter, are less likely to do. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 18 June 2026

Every R+Co formula is vegan, hair color-safe, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified -- free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and synthetic dyes. — ABC News, 19 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

petrol(eum) + Latin -ātum -ate entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for petrolatum

• atom
• datum
• stratum
• erratum
• striatum
• substratum
• heteroatom

Medical Definition

petrolatum

noun

pet·​ro·​la·​tum ˌpe-trə-ˈlāt-əm  -ˈlät- 

: a neutral unctuous substance that is practically odorless and tasteless and is insoluble in water, that is obtained from petroleum and differs chemically from paraffin wax in containing unsaturated hydrocarbons or naphthenes as well as alkanes, and that is produced in several forms: as

a

: a yellowish to light amber semisolid mass used chiefly as a base for ointments and cosmetics, as a protective dressing, and in lubricating greases

called also petroleum jelly, yellow petrolatum

b

: a white or faintly yellowish mass obtained by decolorizing yellow petrolatum and used similarly to it

called also petroleum jelly, white petrolatum, white petroleum jelly