ceramide
noun
cer·amide
ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 
ˈser-
plural ceramides
: any of various simple sphingolipids that are composed of a fatty acid linked to sphingosine, are found especially in cell membranes, are involved in mediating various cellular processes (such as those affecting cell differentiation and apoptosis), and act as precursors for more complex sphingolipids
The enzyme controls production of a cellular substance, ceramide, which triggers the natural process of egg cell death.—
L. Stivitz
L. StivitzMoisturizers containing ceramides (natural lipids that are similar in structure to those in the skin's own moisture barrier) … are also worthwhile splurges for women with dry or problem skin, according to independent tester Grove.—Constance Cardozo
Constance CardozoExamples of ceramide in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Others contain softening emollient ingredients like vitamin E, or skin barrier-strengthening ceramides that prevent trans-epidermal water loss (aka, when moisture evaporates from the surface of the skin).
—Claire Sullivan, WWD, 19 Mar. 2025
These ingredients include hyaluronic acid, of course, as well as ceramides, peptides, plant butters, and amino acids like ectoin.
—Marie Courtois, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2025
In addition to broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, the formula contains hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help moisturize the skin barrier.
—Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 14 Mar. 2025
It’s loved by shoppers for being extra glossy and deeply hydrating thanks to ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and shea butter.
—Taylor Jean Stephan, People.com, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ceramide
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Claire Sullivan, WWD, 19 Mar. 2025
These ingredients include hyaluronic acid, of course, as well as ceramides, peptides, plant butters, and amino acids like ectoin.
—Marie Courtois, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2025
In addition to broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, the formula contains hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help moisturize the skin barrier.
—Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 14 Mar. 2025
It’s loved by shoppers for being extra glossy and deeply hydrating thanks to ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and shea butter.
—Taylor Jean Stephan, People.com, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ceramide
Cite this Entry
“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
ceramide
noun
cer·amide
ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd
: any of a group of amido sphingolipids formed by linking a fatty acid to sphingosine and found widely in small amounts in plant and animal tissue
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