sorbitol

noun

sor·​bi·​tol ˈsȯr-bə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a faintly sweet alcohol C₆H₁₄O₆ that occurs in some fruits, is made synthetically, and is used especially as a humectant and softener and in making ascorbic acid

Examples of sorbitol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This can include saccharin, aspartame, and sorbitol. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2025

Pros: Has a unique fragrance, non-greasy and fast-absorbing Cons: Isn't a great fit for those of us after a fragrance-free formula Best for Eczema: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream Key ingredients: Allantoin, ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalane and sorbitol Fragrance-free? —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 5 Mar. 2025

Ingredients like sorbitol help prevent tooth damage, which can be a side effect of some other products.8 Salivary substitutes: OTC salivary substitutes, which come in gels or sprays, are taken as needed. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 12 Jan. 2025

Pears contain a not easily fermentable sugar called sorbitol, which gives a characteristically round mouthfeel and lingering sweetness. —Beth Demmon, Bon Appétit, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

sorb fruit of the service or related trees + -itol

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sorbitol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

Medical Definition

sorbitol

noun

sor·​bi·​tol ˈsȯr-bə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a faintly sweet alcohol C₆H₁₄O₆ that occurs especially in fruits of the mountain ash (genus Sorbus), is made synthetically, and is used especially as a humectant, a softener, and a sweetener and in making ascorbic acid