retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈre-tə-ˌnȯl How to pronounce retinol (audio) -ˌnōl How to pronounce retinol (audio)
: the chief and typical vitamin A C20H29OH that is a highly unsaturated alicyclic alcohol used in various forms in medicine and nutrition

Examples of retinol 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.
Exfoliation is the easiest way to combat the issue, and this retinol body lotion addresses it from every angle. — Mary Honkus, Glamour, 18 Aug. 2026 The Ordinary denotes this serum as a high-strength retinol formula suitable for people who have already built up a tolerance to lower-concentration retinol products, such as the brand’s beginner and intermediate serums. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 18 Aug. 2026 That jar of retinol on your nightstand only works if the rest of your evening habits are not undoing it. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Aug. 2026 Moustafa said other lifestyle habits matter too, including sunscreen to protect against UV damage, regular use of a topical retinol or retinoid and avoiding smoking to help preserve collagen and prevent its breakdown. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for retinol

Word History

Etymology

retin- + -ol entry 1; from its being the source of retinal

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of retinol was in 1960

Rhymes for retinol

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Browse Nearby Words

retinoid
retinol
retinopapillitis
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Cite this Entry

“Retinol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retinol. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

retinol

noun
ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl How to pronounce retinol (audio)
-ˌōl
: the most common form of vitamin A

Medical Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on retinol

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about retinol

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