terpene

noun

ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn How to pronounce terpene (audio)
: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C10H16 found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis
broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C5H8)n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams
terpeneless adjective
terpenoid
ˈtər-pə-ˌnȯid How to pronounce terpene (audio)
ˌtər-ˈpē-
adjective or noun

Examples of terpene in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The process of creating rosin involves applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, hash, or kief, resulting in a resinous sap rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2025 Once released, terpenes react with ozone in the air and form nanoparticles. Joshua Rapp Learn, Discover Magazine, 31 Mar. 2025 Strain recommendation apps often provide educational content on different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), terpenes (the compounds responsible for flavor and aroma), and their effects. Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 21 Mar. 2025 Cannabis offers a broad spectrum of unique flavors and aromas, all derived from terpenes, esters, and other flavorants. Chelsea Davis, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for terpene

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary terp- (from German Terpentin turpentine, from Medieval Latin terbentina) + -ene — more at turpentine

First Known Use

circa 1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of terpene was circa 1873

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Terpene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terpene. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

terpene

noun
ter·​pene ˈtər-ˌpēn How to pronounce terpene (audio)
: any of various isomeric hydrocarbons C10H16 found present in essential oils (as from conifers) and used especially as solvents and in organic synthesis
broadly : any of numerous hydrocarbons (C5H8)n found especially in essential oils, resins, and balsams
terpeneless adjective
terpenic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on terpene

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