over the counter

1 of 2

phrase

1

: in or through a broker's office rather than through a stock exchange

stock bought over the counter

2

: without a prescription

drugs available over the counter

over-the-counter

2 of 2

adjective

over-the-count·​er ˌō-vər-ṯẖə-ˈkau̇n-tər 

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Examples of over the counter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Phrase

The science behind diphenhydramine overdose Diphenhydramine is marketed under various brand names and is available over the counter as a treatment for allergies in numerous countries. — Andrew Yockey, The Conversation, 24 July 2026

The agency also started the process to make vaginal estrogen available over the counter, part of a broader push to move more safe drugs off the prescription pad. — Avik Roy, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Adjective

Additionally, doctors often recommend over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl to counteract histamine released by the immune system. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 29 July 2026

Maximum transactions Cash withdrawals from checking up to $515 per day at any ATM or as an over-the-counter bank withdrawal. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for over the counter

• encounter

Kids Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold legally without a prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Medical Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter painkiller

Legal Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without a prescription

over-the-counter drugs