menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl How to pronounce menthol (audio)
-ˌthōl
1
: a crystalline alcohol C10H20O that occurs especially in mint oils and has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint
2
menthols plural : mentholated cigarettes

Examples of menthol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The whiskey is much less sweet than other bourbons in that portfolio, with drying tannic notes complemented by red berries and cherry, followed by some menthol and a bit of grass on the finish. Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 9 July 2025 One study found that inhaling menthol extract reduced inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and other allergy signs. Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 8 July 2025 Notes of clementine and menthol on the finish add structure. Rachel King, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025 No Drip Severe Congestion spray with menthol for instant nasal and sinus congestion relief. Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 5 Apr. 2025 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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Cite this Entry

“Menthol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/menthol. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

menthol

noun
men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl How to pronounce menthol (audio)
-ˌthōl
: a white soothing substance from oils of mint

Medical Definition

menthol

noun
: 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)

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