English Reference
noun · verb

lipstick

n. · v.
US /ˈɫɪpˌstɪk/ UK /lˈɪpstɪk/ lip·stick UK spelling lipsticks

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.a coloured substance that you put on your lips to change their colour.

    n.a cosmetic substance, often wax-based, used to colour or protect the lips.

    Simple

    She chose a bright red lipstick to match her dress for the party.

    In context

    The makeup artist applied a matte lipstick to the model's lips to ensure the colour remained consistent throughout the long photo shoot.

    Usage

    Uncountable when referring to the substance itself.

    lip colourlip balm
  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.a small, stick-shaped container of lip makeup.

    n.a single stick or cylindrical applicator of lip cosmetic.

    Simple

    I have three different lipsticks in my bag right now.

    In context

    She purchased several expensive lipsticks from the duty-free shop, intending to give them as gifts to her colleagues.

    Usage

    Countable when referring to the physical object.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    n.a slang term for a lesbian who has a traditionally feminine style.

    n.a slang term for a lesbian who exhibits a feminine aesthetic, such as wearing makeup and dresses.

    Simple

    She described herself as a lipstick lesbian because she loves fashion and makeup.

    In context

    The documentary explored the diverse subcultures within the LGBTQ+ community, including the specific social visibility of lipstick lesbians in the 1990s.

    Usage

    Often used as a modifier before another noun.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to put lipstick on yourself or someone else.

    v.to apply lip cosmetic to a surface, typically the lips.

    Simple

    She carefully lipsticked her mouth in front of the mirror.

    In context

    The actress sat patiently in the dressing room while the stylist lipsticked her for the final scene of the play.

    Usage

    Takes a direct object.


From lip + stick.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated