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

Old standbys and new treatments Topical minoxidil, also known as Rogaine, is a foam available over-the-counter that lengthens the growth phase of the hair cycle, keeping more hair on the head at any one time. —Sydney Lupkin, NPR, 23 Nov. 2025

People generally perceive these over-the-counter gummies, liquids and tablets as harmless. —Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 19 Nov. 2025

Limiting use is also important because some over-the-counter cold medicines and nasal sprays have been shown to be habit-forming. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 19 Nov. 2025

Colds don’t respond to antibiotics, and most over-the-counter medications deliver modest results at best. —Mary J. Scourboutakos, The Conversation, 14 Nov. 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