limonene

noun

lim·​o·​nene ˈli-mə-ˌnēn 

: a widely distributed terpene hydrocarbon C₁₀H₁₆ that occurs in essential oils (as of oranges or lemons) and has a lemon odor

Examples of limonene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With the new limited-edition product, the terpenes used to obtain the essence of a freshly baked churro, according to Mora, were myrcene, limonene and beta-caryophyllene. —Paula Soria, The Arizona Republic, 20 Sep. 2024

Specific terpenes in ginger, such as limonene and linalool, have been studied for their potential neuroprotective (brain-protective) qualities. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 16 Sep. 2024

The vapors released from the container contained several volatile chemicals such as limonene, camphene, 3-carene, and monoterpene alcohols like linalool, carveol, and others. —Jacek Krywko, Ars Technica, 26 July 2024

Lemon Tree, for example, is indica-dominant, 17% to 22% THC, with robust citrus notes thanks to the abundant terpene limonene; its effects tend to be euphoric and relaxing. —Kelsy Chauvin, TIME, 25 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from French limon lemon, from Middle French

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

limonene

noun

lim·​o·​nene ˈlim-ə-ˌnēn 

: a liquid terpene hydrocarbon C₁₀H₁₆ that has an odor like a lemon, exists in dextrorotatory, levorotatory, and racemic forms, and occurs in many essential oils compare dipentene