menthol

American  

[men-thawl, -thol] / ˈmɛn θɔl, -θɒl /

noun

1. Also called hexahydrothymol, peppermint camphor.  Chemistry, Pharmacology. a colorless, crystalline, slightly water-soluble alcohol, C 1 0 H 2 0 O, obtained from peppermint oil or synthesized: used chiefly in perfumes, confections, cigarettes, and liqueurs and in medicine for colds and nasal disorders for its cooling effect on mucous membranes.

2. a mentholated cigarette.

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adjective

1. containing menthol; mentholated.

menthol British  

/ ˈmɛnθɒl /

noun

1. an optically active organic compound found in peppermint oil and used as an antiseptic, in inhalants, and as an analgesic. Formula: C 10 H 20 O

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menthol Scientific  

/ mĕn′thôl′ /

1. A white, crystalline compound obtained from peppermint oil. It is used as a flavoring and as a mild anesthetic. Chemical formula: C ₁₀ H ₂₀ O.

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Etymology

Origin of menthol

1875–80; < New Latin Menth ( a ) ( see mint ¹) + -ol ¹

Example Sentences

Menthol and 1,8-cineole influenced inflammation through TRP channels and calcium signaling.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

Some of the flavors denied by the health regulator include Citrus, Strawberry Cheesecake, Cool Mint and Menthol.

From Reuters • May 12, 2023

Menthol bans would significantly affect Black smokers, nearly 85 percent of whom reported in a government survey that they favored menthol cigarettes, compared with 29 percent of white smokers.

From New York Times • Nov. 10, 2022

Menthol, a chemical found in peppermint and other mint plants, can also give the sensation of easier breathing.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2022

Menthol 5 grains Camphor 5 grains Liquid Alboline 2 ounces Mix and make a solution.

From Mother's Remedies Over One Thousand Tried and Tested Remedies from Mothers of the United States and Canada by Ritter, Thomas Jefferson