lanolin

noun

lan·​o·​lin ˈla-nə-lən 

: wool grease especially when refined for use in ointments and cosmetics

Examples of lanolin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Its star ingredient is lanolin, which is known for its major soothing abilities. —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 14 Jan. 2025

Packed with a mix of ultra-nourishing ingredients like castor oil, beeswax, and lanolin, this balm works overtime to keep your lips soft and hydrated. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Dec. 2024

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, lanolin, beeswax. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Dec. 2024

Because alpacas produce considerably less (by about a factor of ten) of the fleece-protecting lanolin oil than sheep, the fiber is easier to clean and prepare for use. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin lana wool + International Scientific Vocabulary -ol entry 3 + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

lanolin

noun

lan·​o·​lin ˈlan-ᵊl-ən 

: the fatty coating of sheep's wool especially when purified for use in ointments and cosmetics

Medical Definition

lanolin

noun

lan·​o·​lin ˈlan-ᵊl-ən 

: a yellowish sticky unctuous mass of refined wool grease that can be absorbed by the skin, contains from 25 to 30 percent incorporated water, and is used chiefly in ointments and cosmetics

called also adeps lanae, hydrous wool fat