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 Once the dye is rinsed away, use body wash and a washcloth or loofah to remove excess petroleum jelly. Tracee Cornforth, Verywell Health, 1 Mar. 2024 Certain occlusives—such as old-fashioned petroleum jelly and lanolin, found in Aquaphor—may not make sense for daytime use. Jani Hall, Health, 21 Feb. 2024 However, the American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests that people who do sustain burns bandage the wounds and use petroleum jelly to increase the healing process. Kimberlee Speakman, Peoplemag, 13 Feb. 2024 Also consider using petroleum jelly, booties or paw wax products to shield their paws from cold weather damage. Laurie Larsh, Charlotte Observer, 30 Jan. 2024 Strachan says to apply petroleum jelly to damp skin. USA TODAY, 25 Jan. 2024 First, protect your skin from the acetone by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the cuticle area and the skin surrounding each nail. Theresa Holland, Peoplemag, 11 Apr. 2023 Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or paw pad balm to the skin of the paw pads can also help protect your pet’s paws from irritation. Discover Magazine, 1 Feb. 2024 Occlusives, like petroleum jelly or beeswax, are designed to help lock in moisture, while humectants, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, attract and retain moisture. Sarah Klein, SELF, 5 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'petroleum jelly.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 18 Mar. 2024.

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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