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
The ultralight hydrator does everything a richer formula does for your barrier—protect (with honey, a humectant), strengthen (with ceramides), and moisture (with squalene)—but in a cooling gel texture that feels light and refreshing.
—Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
The gentle serum contains an impressive line-up of ingredients, including cutting-edge kimchi exosomes, peptides and a trio of restorative ceramides, that work to hydrate, lock in moisture and minimise signs of ageing.
—Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
At the same time, nourishing shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin work to hydrate and prevent dry skin.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 15 Sep. 2025
May Help with Dry Mouth Pineapple contains a substance called glucosylceramide, which breaks down into ceramides.
—Lauren O'Connor, Health, 11 Sep. 2025
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Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
The gentle serum contains an impressive line-up of ingredients, including cutting-edge kimchi exosomes, peptides and a trio of restorative ceramides, that work to hydrate, lock in moisture and minimise signs of ageing.
—Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
At the same time, nourishing shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin work to hydrate and prevent dry skin.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 15 Sep. 2025
May Help with Dry Mouth Pineapple contains a substance called glucosylceramide, which breaks down into ceramides.
—Lauren O'Connor, Health, 11 Sep. 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 21 Sep. 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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