# menthol

/ˈmɛnθɔɫ/ (US) · /mˈɛnθɒl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/menthol
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

a substance that comes from mint plants and gives a cool, fresh feeling when you touch it. You often find it in cough drops, toothpaste, and some types of cigarettes.

For teachers: a cyclic monoterpene ketone derived from mint oils, characterized by a cooling and numbing effect on the skin and mucous membranes. Often used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics for its analgesic and decongestant properties.

## Examples

- The menthol in the cough drops helps clear my throat.
- Many people prefer menthol cigarettes because the cooling effect makes the smoke feel less harsh on their throat.
- The cooling sensation of menthol is actually a chemical irritation of the cold-sensitive nerve endings, which the brain interprets as a drop in temperature.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.