menthol
UK: ˈmenθɒl | US: ˈmenθɔːl
n. a crystalline alcohol derived from peppermint or other mint oils, used as a flavoring and in medicinal preparations for its cooling effect.
menthol = ment<mint> + hol<alcohol>
- ment<mint>: From Latin mentha, referring to the mint plant.
- hol<alcohol>: A shortened form of "alcohol," indicating its chemical nature.
Etymology Origin:
The word "menthol" combines the Latin root for mint (mentha) with the suffix "-hol" (from "alcohol"), reflecting its origin as a compound extracted from mint oils. The term emerged in the 19th century as chemists isolated and named the substance, emphasizing its botanical source and chemical properties.
Menthol is often added to cough drops for its soothing effect.
The toothpaste contains menthol to leave a fresh taste.
Some people prefer menthol cigarettes for their cooling sensation.
The balm uses menthol to relieve muscle pain.
Her lip balm has a slight menthol fragrance.