peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpe-pər-ˌmint 

-mənt,

 in rapid speech  ˈpep-mənt,

 or  -ᵊm-ənt

1

a

: a pungent and aromatic mint (Mentha piperita) with dark green lanceolate leaves and whorls of small pink flowers in spikes

b

: any of several mints (such as M. arvensis) that are related to the peppermint

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

pepperminty

ˈpe-pər-ˌmin-tē 

adjective

Illustration of peppermint

• peppermint 1a

Examples of peppermint in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Using spray deterrents made from citrus oil, cayenne powder, peppermint oil, garlic, cinnamon, or cloves may also be effective, but these products should not be used when birds are actively nesting. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2025

Honey, peppermint, licorice root, elderberry, ginger, and green tea can loosen mucus and help relieve a nagging cough. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2025

Possible side effects of taking peppermint oil in any form may include heartburn, abdominal pain, dry mouth, and nausea.15 7. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 10 Feb. 2025

Mint, especially peppermint, has a relaxing effect on the LES.4 After consumption, the valve may weaken and allow stomach acid to flow into the esophagus. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 2 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint ˈpep-ər-ˌmint 

-mənt

1

: a mint with stalks of small usually pink flowers that is the source of an oil which is sharp in flavor and is used especially to flavor candies

2

: candy flavored with peppermint

Medical Definition

peppermint

noun

pep·​per·​mint -ˌmint, -mənt 

: a mint of the genus Mentha (M. piperita) with dark green leaves and spikes of small pink flowers from which an aromatic oil is obtained

pepperminty

ˈpep-ər-ˌmint-ē 

adjective