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.
Ointments—particularly petroleum jelly and mineral oil—are typically the better option for eczema because of their higher oil content.10 Avoid products made with fragrances or preservatives.1 Manage Stress Since stress is an eczema trigger, figure out healthful ways to manage stress. Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 June 2025 Made of pure petroleum jelly, a mixture of mineral oils and wax, Vaseline is an inexpensive medicine cabinet staple that has a place in just about every home. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 May 2025 Let Sit: Allow 30 minutes for the soap to penetrate and break down the petroleum jelly. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 May 2025 Simply lather a thick coating of petroleum jelly onto the scratch. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 21 June 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!