pine tar

American  

noun

1. a very viscid, blackish-brown liquid having an odor resembling that of turpentine, obtained by the destructive distillation of pine wood, used in paints, roofing, soaps, and, medicinally, for skin infections.

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pine tar British  

noun

1. a brown or black semisolid or viscous substance, produced by the destructive distillation of pine wood, used in roofing compositions, paints, medicines, etc

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Etymology

Origin of pine tar

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pine tar

Pike perch tartare from Lake Oulujärvi rests on malt bread with capers and dill oil and a whisper of pine tar.

From Salon ● Mar. 8, 2026

“Just let guys use a little bit of pine tar on their fingertips,” Meister said, adding that the pitchers already have to adjust to an inconsistent baseball, one that changes from season to season.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 20, 2025

Rasmussen countered by saying pine tar and rosin are regularly used by hitters, “so it’s not illegal,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 23, 2023

If Kikuchi continued to use pine tar or sunscreen mixed with resin for better grip, which is likely, he’s been somewhat less conspicuous.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 20, 2021

And there was a kid stepping up to the plate, swinging his bat low, the pine tar sticky on his palms.

From "Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy" by Gary D. Schmidt