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retinol

American  
[ret-n-awl, -ol] / ˈrɛt nˌɔl, -ˌɒl /

noun

  1. vitamin A.

  2. Chemistry. a yellowish oil, C 3 2 H 1 6 , obtained by the distillation of resin, used as a solvent and as an antiseptic.


retinol British  
/ ˈrɛtɪˌnɒl /

noun

  1. another name for vitamin A2

  2. another name for rosin oil

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

retinol Scientific  
/ rĕtn-ôl′ /
  1. See vitamin A


Etymology

Origin of retinol

First recorded in 1830–40; from Greek rhētī́n(e) “resin” ( see resin) + -ol 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Medieval pilgrims may have had faith; I had lightweight REI clothing, moleskin, Hokas and retinol.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 25, 2026

One of the most powerful is retinol, which works by speeding up skin cell turnover, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

From BBC Jun. 6, 2026

In a few years, the focus might shift to retinol, or niacinamide acid.

From Slate May 4, 2025

Beauty-store barbarian Sephora tweens stampeding through skin-care aisles and slathering their baby faces in retinol?

From Los Angeles Times Mar. 22, 2024

Ingredients like retinol or skin care routines that involve multiple steps may not be suitable for people in their teens, they note.

From New York Times Mar. 16, 2024

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