volatile oil

noun

: an oil that vaporizes readily
especially : essential oil

Examples of volatile oil 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.
Cedarwood contains volatile oils with a strong scent that repels insects. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 24 May 2026 Every night was a scavenger hunt for art struggling to justify its existence amid volatile oil prices. — Ramon Ramirez, Austin American Statesman, 19 Mar. 2026 EasyJet last week warned that volatile oil prices will weigh on costs over the coming months, impacting customer bookings. — Hugh Leask, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2026 Squirrels typically dislike the strong-smelling volatile oils in plants in the mint family, Hardt says. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for volatile oil

Word History

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of volatile oil was in 1800

Rhymes for volatile oil

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Browse Nearby Words

volatileness
volatile oil
volatile salt
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Volatile oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/volatile%20oil. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

volatile oil

noun
: an oil that vaporizes readily
especially : essential oil compare fatty oil

More from Merriam-Webster on volatile oil

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about volatile oil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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