over-the-counter

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

The new audio smart glasses are part of a category of audio enhancement devices, over-the-counter hearing aids, which were FDA-approved in late 2022. —Mara Santilli, Flow Space, 23 July 2025

Originally developed for prescription hearing aids, this processor has been adapted for over-the-counter use--bringing professional-level performance to everyday consumers at an accessible price point. —New Atlas, 23 July 2025

If over-the-counter medications aren't enough, prescription anti-inflammatory medications can help speed up the healing process. —Aubrey Bailey, Verywell Health, 22 July 2025

Tidmarsh, an adjunct professor of pediatrics and neonatology at Stanford University, will oversee one of the FDA's largest and most important divisions, which regulates over-the-counter and prescription drugs. —Sriparna Roy, USA Today, 21 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for over-the-counter

• 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