over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er ˌō-vər-ṯẖə-ˈkau̇n-tər 

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Examples of over-the-counter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These are best practices, as is locking up medicines — both prescription medications as well as over-the-counter treatments. —Katia Hetter, CNN, 1 Mar. 2025

The effect of the over-the-counter drug was significantly stronger in female offspring than males. —Michael Franco, New Atlas, 1 Mar. 2025

In their investigation, authorities collected two green cellphones, two bottles of medication, one bottle of over-the-counter Tylenol, a request for medical records and a 2025 monthly planner for evidentiary purposes. —J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 28 Feb. 2025

Treatments like topical steroids, immunosuppressant drugs, and injectable meds like biologics can be game-changers for people with the condition who haven’t found relief from over-the-counter options. —Jihan Forbes, Allure, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for over-the-counter

• counter
• encounter

Kids Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold legally without a prescription

an over-the-counter pain reliever

Medical Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

: sold lawfully without prescription

an over-the-counter painkiller

Legal Definition

over-the-counter

adjective

over-the-count·​er

1

: not traded or effected on an organized securities exchange

over-the-counter transactions

over-the-counter securities

2

: sold lawfully without a prescription

over-the-counter drugs