terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn How to pronounce terpene (audio)
: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C10H16 found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis
broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C5H8)n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams
terpeneless adjective
terpenoid
ˈtər-pə-ˌnȯid How to pronounce terpene (audio)
ˌtər-ˈpē-
adjective or noun

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Six different scents of terpenes were on display. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 24 Mar. 2023 These reports not only verify the potency and purity of CBD oil but also give insights into other important factors like terpene and cannabinoid profiles, heavy metal content, and the presence of microbes. Dallas News, 31 Oct. 2022 This terpene is known to interact with THC molecules to change their effects. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 11 Oct. 2022 Image courtesy Colorado Botanicals With a lack of federal regulation, Colorado Botanicals has taken upon themselves to offer high-tech and terpene-rich CBD hemp extractions. Nick Rogan, Discover Magazine, 9 Dec. 2022 These testing results will show the cannabinoid and terpene profile as well as any contaminants that might be present. Dallas News, 31 Oct. 2022 This tincture is also infused with premium full-spectrum hemp extract and a unique terpene blend of limonene, caryophyllene, and linalool designed to naturally soothe pain. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 16 Dec. 2022 With a full-terpene profile and an array of herbal extracts, including rosemary, grapeseed, and lemon peel, Sol CBD oil balm helps to soothe the skin while boosting its natural body defenses. Dallas News, 21 Dec. 2022 Guaiol, another terpene from a2010 study, showed Guaiol might have anti-inflammatory properties, or Bisabolol, which from a2011 study showed may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 15 Dec. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'terpene.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary terp- (from German Terpentin turpentine, from Medieval Latin terbentina) + -ene — more at turpentine

First Known Use

circa 1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of terpene was circa 1873

Dictionary Entries Near terpene

Cite this Entry

“Terpene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terpene. Accessed 29 May. 2023.

Medical Definition

terpene

noun
ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn How to pronounce terpene (audio)
: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C10H16 found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis
broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C5H8)n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams
terpeneless adjective
terpenic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on terpene

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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