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

The agency has previously authorized menthol and tobacco flavors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The same mechanism explains why menthol, eucalyptus, and related compounds create a cooling feeling even when the temperature has not actually dropped.

From Science Daily • Mar. 8, 2026

A mini natural mouth wash, gum, a charging cord, deodorant, there’s probably a spare pair of socks, and then those sniffy menthol things for your nose.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

And he didn't like it, says Aljin, when chopped onions were placed next to him, and menthol put under his eyes, to make him cry.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2025

When Cole breathed again, he noticed that his breaths had cooled as if he were sucking on a menthol cough drop.

From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen