ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd How to pronounce ceramide (audio)
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
Moisturizers 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

Examples of ceramide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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As Berry noted above, other growth-enhancing ingredients include tea tree oil, peptides, and ceramides. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025 Meanwhile, the ceramides in this product lock in moisture, strengthen your skin’s barrier and protect it from environmental stressors like pollution. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 4 Feb. 2025 Some green-flag ingredients include ceramides (which strengthen and support the skin barrier) and niacinamide (which soothes and calms the skin). Madison Yauger, People.com, 25 Jan. 2025 L'Oreal told me my optimal skincare routine would include ceramides (for moisture), retinol, and a good sunscreen. Emily Forlini, PCMAG, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ceramide 

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ceramide was in 1958

Dictionary Entries Near ceramide

Cite this Entry

“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

ceramide

noun
cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd How to pronounce ceramide (audio)
: 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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