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
This deeply moisturizing ceramide serum will do just the trick with a blend of squalane and beta glucan (which is a polysaccharide that helps boost the skin barrier), plus fatty acids to help lock in hydration all day long.
—Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 4 Aug. 2025
The thick formula doesn’t skimp on nourishing ingredients, pairing shea butter, macadamia seed oil, and ceramides with soothing centella asiatica.
—Deanna Pai, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2025
The aluminum and fragrance work to combat stinky sweat, while ceramides help keep your delicate underarm skin healthy.
—Sara Coughlin, SELF, 23 July 2025
Barrier repair creams with ceramides, cholesterol or fatty acids, or formulas with peptide and growth factor will also aid in skin nourishment and renewal.
—Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 22 June 2025
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Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 4 Aug. 2025
The thick formula doesn’t skimp on nourishing ingredients, pairing shea butter, macadamia seed oil, and ceramides with soothing centella asiatica.
—Deanna Pai, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2025
The aluminum and fragrance work to combat stinky sweat, while ceramides help keep your delicate underarm skin healthy.
—Sara Coughlin, SELF, 23 July 2025
Barrier repair creams with ceramides, cholesterol or fatty acids, or formulas with peptide and growth factor will also aid in skin nourishment and renewal.
—Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 22 June 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 8 Aug. 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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