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

Apply a thick layer of steroid-like over-the-counter cortisone cream mixed with a thick emollient like Dr. Rossi Derm MD Night Synthesis (the peptide in the night synthesis targets the TRPV1 receptor to help block the inflammatory cascade), or pure aloe vera gel also works. —Emma Specter, Vogue, 30 June 2025

Depending on the plan, Medicare may offer additional benefits like vision, dental, over-the-counter medicines, grocery supplies, and transportation services. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 27 June 2025

For many, over-the-counter meds only pile on side effects: drowsiness, rebound symptoms, or risky drug interactions. —Tanya Benedicto Klich, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications — like antidepressants — can cause diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, according to the Cleveland Clinic. —Melina Khan, USA Today, 26 June 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