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

Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient in over-the-counter products used to treat acne. —Sari Hitchins, Parents, 14 Mar. 2025

The recall primarily affects over-the-counter acne treatment products containing benzoyl peroxide. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

See a healthcare provider to discuss prescription options if over-the-counter shampoo doesn’t treat your dandruff. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 14 Mar. 2025

To be fair, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) don’t help to get rid of all primary headaches, including migraines. —Korin Miller, SELF, 13 Mar. 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