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

“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

There was no putting that pine tar back in the tube.

From Seattle Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

And yet the visual — him in a Red Sox uniform, his signature pine tar stain above the No. 2 on his back — remains jarring.

From Los Angeles Times

And yet the visual — Turner in a Red Sox uniform, his signature pine tar stain above the No. 2 on his back — remains jarring.

From Los Angeles Times