retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈre-tə-ˌnȯl 

-ˌnōl

: the chief and typical vitamin A C₂₀H₂₉OH that is a highly unsaturated alicyclic alcohol used in various forms in medicine and nutrition

Examples of retinol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adult skincare often contains ingredients that may irritate young skin, like fragrances, exfoliating acids, and topical retinol, derms say. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 29 Aug. 2025

Brighter, smoother, clearer, firmer skin—the benefits of alpha hydroxy acids for skin almost sound comparable to those of retinol and retinoids. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 25 Aug. 2025

To find more anti-aging products to add to your skincare routine, check out other customer-favorite retinol formulas from Amazon below. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2025

Formulated with retinol, a hydrating mineral complex, and glycerin, this gentle yet effective, non-greasy cream helps smooth fine lines, brighten under-eyes, and reduce puffiness and dark circles over time. —Annita Katee, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

retin- + -ol entry 1; from its being the source of retinal

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for retinol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

Kids Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl 

-ˌōl

: the most common form of vitamin A

Medical Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl  -ˌōl 

: vitamin a sense a