pinene

noun

pi·​nene ˈpī-ˌnēn How to pronounce pinene (audio)
: either of two liquid isomeric unsaturated bicyclic terpene hydrocarbons C10H16 of which one is a major constituent of wood turpentine

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Some common terpenes: myrcene (herbal, also found in lemongrass, hops, eucalyptus), limonene (also found in citrus peel), linalool (a terpene found in lavender and mint plants) and pinene (familiar from the scent of pine needles). Samantha Davenport, Anchorage Daily News, 28 May 2020 The piney-tasting pinene terpene—said to be a bronchodilator good for those with asthma that can be used as an expectorant and to increase alertness—also factors into that brew. Kathryn Romeyn, Vogue, 9 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pinene.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Latin pinus

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pinene was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near pinene

Cite this Entry

“Pinene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pinene. Accessed 25 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

pinene

noun
pi·​nene ˈpī-ˌnēn How to pronounce pinene (audio)
: either of two liquid isomeric unsaturated bicyclic terpene hydrocarbons C10H16 of which one is a major constituent of wood turpentine

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