lanolin

American  

[lan-l-in] / ˈlæn l ɪn /

Also lanoline

noun

1. a fatty substance, extracted from wool, used in ointments, cosmetics, waterproof coatings, etc.

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lanolin British  

/ ˈlænəlɪn, ˈlænəˌleɪtɪd, -ˌliːn, ˈlænəlɪn /

noun

1. Also called: wool fat.  a yellowish viscous substance extracted from wool, consisting of a mixture of esters of fatty acids: used in some ointments

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lanolin Scientific  

/ lăn′ə-lĭn /

1. A yellowish-white wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep to coat wool. Lanolin is composed of esters and polyesters of almost seventy alcohols and fatty acids. Since it is easily absorbed by the skin, it is used in soaps, cosmetics, and ointments.

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Other Word Forms

• lanolated adjective

Etymology

Origin of lanolin

1880–85; < Latin lān ( a ) wool + -ol ² + -in ²

Example Sentences

Croda was founded in 1925 when George Crowe and Henry Dawe began producing lanolin, a waxy substance made from sheep's wool.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2025

The ointment also contains emollients such as lanolin and petroleum jelly.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 29, 2022

A blend of 70 percent viognier with the balance being roussanne, this lovely white overflows with jasmine and honeysuckle flavors and a texture of lanolin and beeswax.

From Washington Post • Jul. 30, 2021

They're tough but pliable, even when wet, and their lanolin keeps hands soft.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2016

But, no, the smell was one I remembered from kindergarten field trips to the petting zoo— lanolin, like from wool.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan