mineral oil

noun

: an oil of mineral origin

especially : a refined petroleum oil used especially as a laxative

Examples of mineral oil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Step right this way for an in-depth explainer on how to clean and care for it, but here’s the gist: At least once a month, pull out a clean microfiber cloth, a food-grade mineral oil, and a food-safe board sealant that combines oil with a protective beeswax. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appétit, 17 Sep. 2024

The oil comes in four varieties — food-grade mineral oil enriched with extracts of orange and lemon, lavender and rosemary, or lemongrass, and 100 percent organic coconut oil. —Hyphensocial Contributors, Rolling Stone, 17 Sep. 2024

Then the video reminds you to season the bowl regularly with walnut oil, food-safe mineral oil, and/or food-safe wood polish. —Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 16 Sep. 2024

The petroleum jelly, lanolin, and mineral oil in Aquaphor act as occlusive moisturizers and skin protectants. —Rosanna Sutherby, Verywell Health, 11 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

mineral oil

noun

: an oil (as petroleum) of mineral origin

especially : a purified petroleum oil having no color, odor, or taste that is used especially as a laxative

Medical Definition

mineral oil

noun

1

: a liquid product of mineral origin that has the viscosity of an oil

2

: a transparent oily liquid obtained usually by distilling petroleum and used chiefly in medicine for treating constipation and especially formerly as a demulcent and solvent for nose and throat medication

called also liquid petrolatum, white mineral oil