# cosmetic

/kɑzˈmɛtɪk/ (US) · /kɒzmˈɛtɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cosmetic
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. makeup product

noun · CEFR B1

a substance such as cream, powder, or lipstick that you put on your face or body to look more attractive.

For teachers: a preparation or substance applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, or altering the appearance.

- She spent a lot of money on high-quality cosmetics at the department store.
- The regulation of cosmetics ensures that the chemicals used in skincare products are safe for long-term daily application.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form 'cosmetics' when referring to makeup in general.

### 2. improving appearance

adjective · CEFR B2

used to improve the way something or someone looks.

For teachers: relating to treatment intended to restore or improve a person's appearance.

- He decided to have cosmetic surgery to fix the shape of his nose.
- While some procedures are medically necessary, others are purely cosmetic and aimed at boosting the patient's self-esteem.

### 3. superficial

adjective · CEFR B2

affecting only the surface or appearance of something, rather than its basic character.

For teachers: affecting only the appearance of something rather than its substance or essence; often used to imply a lack of depth.

- The repairs to the old house were mostly cosmetic, like painting the walls.
- Critics argued that the government's policy changes were merely cosmetic and failed to address the root causes of the economic crisis.

## Examples

- She keeps all her cosmetics in a small bag.
- The store sells a wide range of natural cosmetics made without any synthetic chemicals or perfumes.
- While the marketing focuses on the aesthetic benefits of the cosmetic, the underlying formula contains active ingredients designed to protect the skin from environmental pollutants.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.