is this the same as paint thinner?

Turpentine (also called spirit of turpentine, oil of turpentine, wood turpentine, gum turpentine) is a fluid obtained by the distillation of resin obtained from trees, mainly pine trees. Yes, turpentine is a "paint thinner" however that term is generally used to describe a variety of products made from petroleum. Read the labels to be sure.

thanks John