petroleum jelly

noun

: a neutral unctuous odorless tasteless substance obtained from petroleum and used especially in ointments and dressings

Examples of petroleum jelly 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 key ingredient is petrolatum (also known as petroleum jelly), which forms a protective layer on the surface of your skin to prevent moisture loss and the unwanted effects of environmental hazards. Jamie Ballard, Allure, 10 Jan. 2025 Research shows that humectants (to pull in water) paired with occlusives (to lock it in) work best for the cracked skin on your soles in particular, so look out for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, panthenol, and petroleum jelly. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 9 Jan. 2025 If the patch test area develops irritation, wash the castor oil off of your skin and apply a cool compress or petroleum jelly to soothe your skin. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 5 Jan. 2025 Then apply a layer of petroleum jelly to seal in moisture. Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 17 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for petroleum jelly 

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petroleum jelly was in 1883

Dictionary Entries Near petroleum jelly

Cite this Entry

“Petroleum jelly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petroleum%20jelly. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

petroleum jelly

noun
: a tasteless, odorless, and oily or greasy substance from petroleum that is used especially in ointments and dressings

Medical Definition

petroleum jelly

noun

More from Merriam-Webster on petroleum jelly

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