mineral oil

noun

: an oil of mineral origin

especially : a refined petroleum oil used especially as a laxative

Examples of mineral oil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The agency recommended using a mineral oil or grease removing agent, and then rinsing the affected area again. —Nathan Diller, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025

Removing Stains From Hardwood Floors During cleaning, check for stains from any spills or foot traffic and clean them as soon as possible. Use a mineral oil and apply it to the stain. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2025

This drugstore darling is a versatile medicine cabinet staple for its mix of petroleum jelly, mineral oil, glycerin, and lanolin that acts as an all-in-one humectant, emollient, and occlusive to ensure your skin stays soft and plump. —Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 6 Dec. 2024

Like many of the mascaras on this list, its formula is fragrance-free, but Dr. Kelley says its ultra-gentle composition is also doesn’t contain allergens like beeswax or mineral oils. —Nicola Dall'asen, Allure, 4 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mineral oil

• aerofoil
• cinquefoil
• hydrofoil
• quatrefoil
• airfoil
• benzoyl
• despoil
• embroil
• etoile
• gargoyle
• recoil
• subsoil

Kids Definition

mineral oil

noun

: an oil (as petroleum) of mineral origin

especially : a purified petroleum oil having no color, odor, or taste that is used especially as a laxative

Medical Definition

mineral oil

noun

1

: a liquid product of mineral origin that has the viscosity of an oil

2

: a transparent oily liquid obtained usually by distilling petroleum and used chiefly in medicine for treating constipation and especially formerly as a demulcent and solvent for nose and throat medication

called also liquid petrolatum, white mineral oil