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

In March, the FDA released its first-ever guidance to industry on flavors, stating that menthol, coffee, mint and spice flavors could have a role in appealing to adult smokers. —CBS News, 6 May 2026

The thinking is that tobacco and menthol vape flavors may be too reminiscent of smoking, making people more likely to relapse. —Sarah Todd, STAT, 6 May 2026

Peppermint oil contains concentrated forms of menthol and menthone that irritate the nasal passages of mice. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 30 Apr. 2026

Its menthol resin scents the forest, encouraging deep breaths in time with the Atlantic surf on Itapororoca beach, forever within earshot. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

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)