over-the-counter — available for sale directly to customers without prescription
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: available for sale directly to customers without prescription
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌoʊvər ðə ˈkaʊntər/
Example Sentences
- My mom treats every headache with over-the-counter pills like she's a walking pharmacy.
- The stock is traded over-the-counter because it doesn't meet exchange requirements.
- He bought so many over-the-counter vitamins that his bathroom looks like a supplement store.
over-the-counter
ADJECTIVE[/ˌoʊvər ðə ˈkaʊntər/]
available for sale directly to customers without prescription
available for sale directly to customers without prescription
At the counter, encounter what's over-the-counter!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This term originated from the literal practice in pharmacies where medications were dispensed directly by pharmacists to customers across the counter, rather than through a closed-off prescription system. The phrase emerged in early 20th-century American English to describe medicines available without a doctor's prescription, as opposed to those kept behind the pharmacist's counter.
Breakdown
over (above, across) + the (definite article) + counter (pharmacy counter, sales desk). The compound describes goods handed directly across the counter to customers without intermediary requirements.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom treats every headache with over-the-counter pills like she's a walking pharmacy.”
“The stock is traded over-the-counter because it doesn't meet exchange requirements.”
“He bought so many over-the-counter vitamins that his bathroom looks like a supplement store.”
“Over-the-counter medicines are convenient but always read the label carefully.”
📚Related Words
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