retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈre-tə-ˌnȯl 

-ˌnōl

: the chief and typical vitamin A C₂₀H₂₉OH that is a highly unsaturated alicyclic alcohol used in various forms in medicine and nutrition

Examples of retinol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That sets the ideal environment for both the formula’s retinol and retinol booster, which are gradually released throughout the night to deliver results with minimal irritation or dryness—if any. —Deanna Pai, Vogue, 25 June 2025

This treatment contains pure retinol to encourage cell turnover by removing dead skin buildup, while also helping to improve the appearance of bumps on the arms and legs. —Talia Abbas, Glamour, 23 June 2025

Its formula contains retinol to help reduce puffiness and fine lines around the eyes. —Isabel Garcia, People.com, 21 June 2025

Adult skincare often contains ingredients that may irritate young skin, like fragrances, exfoliating acids, and topical retinol, derms say. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 12 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

retin- + -ol entry 1; from its being the source of retinal

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for retinol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

Kids Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl 

-ˌōl

: the most common form of vitamin A

Medical Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl  -ˌōl 

: vitamin a sense a