menthol

[ men-thawl, -thol ]
/ ˈmɛn θɔl, -θɒl /

noun

Also called hexahydrothymol, peppermint camphor. Chemistry, Pharmacology. a colorless, crystalline, slightly water-soluble alcohol, C10H20O, obtained from peppermint oil or synthesized: used chiefly in perfumes, confections, cigarettes, and liqueurs and in medicine for colds and nasal disorders for its cooling effect on mucous membranes.
a mentholated cigarette.

adjective

containing menthol; mentholated.

Origin of menthol

1875–80; < New Latin Menth(a) (see mint1) + -ol1

Example sentences from the Web for menthol

British Dictionary definitions for menthol

menthol
/ (ˈmɛnθɒl) /

noun

an optically active organic compound found in peppermint oil and used as an antiseptic, in inhalants, and as an analgesic. Formula: C 10 H 20 O

Word Origin for menthol

C19: from German, from Latin mentha mint 1

Medical definitions for menthol

menthol
[ mĕnthôl′ ]

n.

A white crystalline organic compound obtained from peppermint oil or synthesized and used as a mild topical anesthetic.

Scientific definitions for menthol

menthol
[ mĕnthôl′ ]

A white, crystalline compound obtained from peppermint oil. It is used as a flavoring and as a mild anesthetic. Chemical formula: C10H20O.