terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn 

: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C₁₀H₁₆ found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis

broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C₅H₈)_n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams

terpeneless

ˈtər-ˌpēn-ləs 

adjective

terpenoid

ˈtər-pə-ˌnȯid 

ˌtər-ˈpē-

adjective or noun

Examples of terpene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Cannabis has the genetic potential to express every terpene on earth. —Sarah Sinclair, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025

Natural Compounds as Potential Drugs Many modern drugs originate from medicinal herbs, which contain active compounds like alkaloids, glycosides, polyphenols, and terpenes. —Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 12 Mar. 2025

Indica strains of cannabis are often associated with relaxation and sleepiness, thanks to their unique terpene profiles, which include compounds like myrcene. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2025

Cannabis Tastings at Lounges Cannabis tasting is like wine tasting but with terpene profiles instead of tannins. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary terp- (from German Terpentin turpentine, from Medieval Latin terbentina) + -ene — more at turpentine

First Known Use

circa 1873, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn 

: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C₁₀H₁₆ found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis

broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C₅H₈)_n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams

terpeneless

-ləs 

adjective

terpenic

ˌtər-ˈpē-nik  -ˈpen-ik 

adjective