essential oil

noun

: any of a class of volatile oils that give plants their characteristic odors and are used especially in perfumes and flavorings, and for aromatherapy compare fixed oil

Examples of essential oil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Plus, a tray for essential oils is included for aromatherapy use. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024

This potent magnesium bath soak is enriched with stress-relieving essential oils and apple cider vinegar and is designed to support serotonin levels and provide muscle and nerve relief. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 1 Nov. 2024

This trio of creams, which are infused with essential oils like orange blossom and argan oil, will keep her skin nourished. —Brie Schwartz, Glamour, 31 Oct. 2024

Skincare is crafted with primarily European plant extracts and fine essential oils and treatments couple massage techniques with collagen-boosting infrared LEDs for tailored experiences that can be part of two- or four-day programs launching this fall. —Lane Nieset, Robb Report, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1674, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

essential oil

noun

: any of a large class of volatile odoriferous oils of vegetable origin that give plants their characteristic odors and often other properties, that are obtained from various parts of the plants (as flowers, leaves, or bark) by steam distillation, expression, or extraction, that are usually mixtures of compounds (as aldehydes or esters), and that are used often in the form of essences in perfumes, flavorings, and pharmaceutical preparations

called also ethereal oil, volatile oil

compare fatty oil, fixed oil