menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl 

-ˌthōl

1

: a crystalline alcohol C₁₀H₂₀O that occurs especially in mint oils and has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint

2

menthols plural : mentholated cigarettes

Examples of menthol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The most popular flavor was fruit, followed by candy flavors, mint and menthol. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 2 Dec. 2024

The case comes as kid-friendly flavors, such as fruit, candy, mint, menthol and desserts, which are not approved by the FDA and are on the market illegally, have been fueling an explosion in retail sales of e-cigarettes. —Devin Dwyer, ABC News, 2 Dec. 2024

Ginger is generally safe for children over age 2.16 Try Peppermint Active compounds in peppermint, such as menthol and menthone, help relax digestive muscles, which can ease nausea. —Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 3 Sep. 2024

Bay leaves are often described as having eucalyptus, menthol, and pine notes. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

German, ultimately from Latin mentha mint

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl 

-ˌthōl

: a white soothing substance from oils of mint

Medical Definition

menthol

noun

men·​thol ˈmen-ˌthȯl  -ˌthōl 

: a crystalline alcohol C₁₀H₂₀O that occurs especially in mint oils, has the odor and cooling properties of peppermint, and is used in flavoring and in medicine (as locally to relieve pain, itching, and nasal congestion)