sorbitol

noun

sor·​bi·​tol ˈsȯr-bə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a faintly sweet alcohol C₆H₁₄O₆ that occurs in some fruits, is made synthetically, and is used especially as a humectant and softener and in making ascorbic acid

Examples of sorbitol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, sorbitol, palmitic acid Size: 8 fl. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 19 Apr. 2025

Fruits Fructose and sorbitol are the common FODMAPs found in fruits. —Johna Burdeos, Health, 14 Apr. 2025

This can include saccharin, aspartame, and sorbitol. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2025

Pros: Has a unique fragrance, non-greasy and fast-absorbing Cons: Isn't a great fit for those of us after a fragrance-free formula Best for Eczema: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream Key ingredients: Allantoin, ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalane and sorbitol Fragrance-free? —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

sorb fruit of the service or related trees + -itol

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sorbitol

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

Medical Definition

sorbitol

noun

sor·​bi·​tol ˈsȯr-bə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a faintly sweet alcohol C₆H₁₄O₆ that occurs especially in fruits of the mountain ash (genus Sorbus), is made synthetically, and is used especially as a humectant, a softener, and a sweetener and in making ascorbic acid