Cosmetic

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /kÉ’zˈmÉ›.tɪk/
• US IPA: /kÉ’zˈmÉ›.ɾɪk/

Origin

From Ancient Greek κοσμητική (kosmetike) "the art of dress and ornament", from κοσμητής (kosmetes) "orderer, director, decorator", from κοσμέω

(kosmeo) "to order, to arrange, to rule, to adorn, to equip, to dress, to embellish".

Full definition of cosmetic

Adjective

1. Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion.a cosmetic preparation
• Alexander PopeFirst, robed in white, the nymph intent adores,
  With head uncovered, the cosmetic powers.
2. External or superficial; pertaining only to the surface or appearance of something.Fortunately, the damage to the house was mostly cosmetic and a bit of paint covered it nicely.

Related terms

• cosmos

Derived terms

• cosmetic surgery

Noun

1. Any substances applied to enhance the external color or texture of the skin, e.g. lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner; makeup.
2. A feature existing only on the surface.

Hyponyms