over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er ˌō-vər-ṯẖə-ˈkau̇n-tər How to pronounce over-the-counter (audio)
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
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.
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 See All Example Sentences for over-the-counter

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of over-the-counter was in 1921

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Over-the-counter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/over-the-counter. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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