terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn 

: 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

ˈtər-ˌpēn-ləs 

adjective

terpenoid

ˈtər-pə-ˌnȯid 

ˌtər-ˈpē-

adjective or noun

Examples of terpene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The process of creating rosin involves applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, hash, or kief, resulting in a resinous sap rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. —Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2025

Once released, terpenes react with ozone in the air and form nanoparticles. —Joshua Rapp Learn, Discover Magazine, 31 Mar. 2025

Strain recommendation apps often provide educational content on different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), terpenes (the compounds responsible for flavor and aroma), and their effects. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 21 Mar. 2025

Cannabis offers a broad spectrum of unique flavors and aromas, all derived from terpenes, esters, and other flavorants. —Chelsea Davis, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

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

Medical Definition

terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn 

: 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

-ləs 

adjective

terpenic

ˌtər-ˈpē-nik  -ˈpen-ik 

adjective