rhizoverbBeta
DictionarylanolinWool grease
noun

lanolin

LAN-uh-lin/ˈlænəlɪn/

A waxy grease obtained from wool and used in skin products.

This hand cream contains lanolin to help soften dry skin.

A compact source-to-use composition: a sheep beside freshly shorn wool, a small open jar of thick golden wool grease, and a woman applying a small dab to dry skin.
Etymology
lanLatinwool
+olLatinoil, fat
+inGermanchemical substance

The wool and oil elements name the substance by its source: fatty matter extracted from sheep’s wool. The chemical suffix marks it as a substance.

In context

Adam Ragusea4:48
Some people say that they can taste the lanolin. It's this waxy substance that's naturally found on wool. It's used in cosmetics and such
Why sheep (lamb, mutton) tastes sheepy

More examples

  • She checks the lotion's label for lanolin.
  • A little lanolin helps protect his chapped lips.
  • The pharmacist recommends a lanolin ointment for her dry hands.

Forms

lanolin

Similar words

petrolatum
A petroleum-derived skin protectant, rather than grease from wool.
emollient
Any skin-softening substance, not specifically grease obtained from wool.