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

Known as terpenes, they are typically considered fairly safe, or even healthy when ingested in relatively small doses. — Mike McRae 03, New Atlas, 4 Sep. 2026

Alternative ingredients like terpenes, cinnamaldehyde, and p-menthane-3,8-diol offer viable options. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026

Industry experts recommend choosing products based on aroma, terpenes, and considering THC as merely one factor among many. — Peter Su, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

Its leaves contain glycosides and terpenes, which can improve blood circulation, provide antioxidant protection and offer neuroprotective benefits, per the NCCIH. — Ryan Brennan may 6, Sacbee.com, 6 May 2026

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