peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpe-pər-ˌmint 

-mənt,

 in rapid speech  ˈpep-mənt,

 or  -ᵊm-ənt

1

a

: a pungent and aromatic mint (Mentha piperita) with dark green lanceolate leaves and whorls of small pink flowers in spikes

b

: any of several mints (such as M. arvensis) that are related to the peppermint

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

pepperminty

ˈpe-pər-ˌmin-tē 

adjective

Illustration of peppermint

• peppermint 1a

Examples of peppermint in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Use natural repellents: Certain natural repellents, such as peppermint oil, citrus oil or vinegar, may deter spiders. —Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 14 June 2024

Even just smelling mint can perk you up, so go ahead: Throw some mint lip balm in your pocket or try a rollerball filled with diluted peppermint essential oil. —Lisa Milbrand, Parents, 13 June 2024

This affordable Burt’s Bees option lends minty fresh hydration via beeswax, vitamin E, and peppermint oil. —Kate Watson, Peoplemag, 12 June 2024

Pink paint job with red and white peppermint wheels, chocolate dripping from the roof and lollipops sticking out of the truck bed. —Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register, 7 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpep-ər-ˌmint 

-mənt

1

: a mint with stalks of small usually pink flowers that is the source of an oil which is sharp in flavor and is used especially to flavor candies

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

Medical Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint -ˌmint, -mənt 

: a mint of the genus Mentha (M. piperita) with dark green leaves and spikes of small pink flowers from which an aromatic oil is obtained

pepperminty

ˈpep-ər-ˌmint-ē 

adjective