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

Examples of terpene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With the new limited-edition product, the terpenes used to obtain the essence of a freshly baked churro, according to Mora, were myrcene, limonene and beta-caryophyllene. Paula Soria, The Arizona Republic, 20 Sep. 2024 This is ideal for using with lower temperatures and pulling the terpenes that need low temperatures out first before increasing the temperature to vaporize the rest. Emily Earlenbaugh, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 Different strains and products contain different ratios of terpenes, cannabinoids, and dosages. Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 25 Oct. 2024 Talk of terpenes and cannabinoids is all the rage today. Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 22 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for terpene 

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 4 Dec. 2024.

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

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