menthol

noun

men·thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl

-ˌthōl

: a crystalline alcohol C₁₀H₂₀O that occurs especially in mint oils and has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint

menthols plural : mentholated cigarettes

Examples of menthol 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.

Vapor rubs containing combinations of camphor, eucalyptus and menthol oils may provide some relief for nighttime cough and cold symptoms when applied to the chest and neck. — Andee Tagle, NPR, 15 Oct. 2026 This oil keeps dry lips comfortable and looking juicy, thanks to hydrating hyaluronic acid and smoothing tripeptides, while minty menthol and peppermint oil plump without the painful sting. — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 15 Oct. 2026 Research has shown that menthols are more likely to addict young smokers and that a ban could avert 650,000 early deaths over four decades. — Jason McLure — The Examination, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026 Some products may also have ingredients, such as menthol or fragrance, that could be causing a reaction. — Lindy Segal, Glamour, 8 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for menthol

Word History

Etymology

German, ultimately from Latin mentha mint

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of menthol was in 1862

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Browse Nearby Words

menthenone

menthol

mentholated

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Menthol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/menthol. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

menthol

noun

men·thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl

-ˌthōl

: a white soothing substance from oils of mint

Medical Definition

menthol

noun

men·thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl -ˌthōl

: a crystalline alcohol C₁₀H₂₀O that occurs especially in mint oils, has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint, and is used in flavoring and in medicine (as locally to relieve pain, itching, and nasal congestion)

menthol

noun

Examples of menthol in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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