-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
essential oil
noun
: any of a class of volatile oils that give plants their characteristic odors and are used especially in perfumes and flavorings, and for aromatherapy compare fixed oil
Examples of essential oil in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Plus, a tray for essential oils is included for aromatherapy use.
—Toni Sutton, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024
This potent magnesium bath soak is enriched with stress-relieving essential oils and apple cider vinegar and is designed to support serotonin levels and provide muscle and nerve relief.
—Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 1 Nov. 2024
This trio of creams, which are infused with essential oils like orange blossom and argan oil, will keep her skin nourished.
—Brie Schwartz, Glamour, 31 Oct. 2024
Skincare is crafted with primarily European plant extracts and fine essential oils and treatments couple massage techniques with collagen-boosting infrared LEDs for tailored experiences that can be part of two- or four-day programs launching this fall.
—Lane Nieset, Robb Report, 25 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for essential oil
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1674, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near essential oil
Cite this Entry
“Essential oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/essential%20oil. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
essential oil
noun
: any of a large class of volatile odoriferous oils of vegetable origin that give plants their characteristic odors and often other properties, that are obtained from various parts of the plants (as flowers, leaves, or bark) by steam distillation, expression, or extraction, that are usually mixtures of compounds (as aldehydes or esters), and that are used often in the form of essences in perfumes, flavorings, and pharmaceutical preparations
called also ethereal oil, volatile oil
compare fatty oil, fixed oilMore from Merriam-Webster on essential oil
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about essential oil
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share