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 peppermint oil or neem oil mixed according to the instructions on the label to get rid of these pests. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Oct. 2024

Peppermint Essential Oil Little to no human studies support peppermint oil for hair growth. —Kathi Valeii, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

Alternative Options for Cleaning Your Toilet Another natural concoction made up of ingredients taken straight from the kitchen: equal parts baking soda and white vinegar mixed with essential oils (think: peppermint or tea tree oil). —Michelle Darrisaw, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2024

Herbal teas: Caffeine-free herbal teas, such as peppermint and chamomile, can be a soothing alternative to coffee. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 23 Sep. 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