as in decorative
serving to add beauty
changes in the original design of the building were purely cosmetic
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Recent Examples of cosmetic
Alexandra Emanuelli,
Southern Living,
26 June 2026
Why worry about a cosmetic problem when there is so much going on in the world that is demonstrably more important?
—
Bill Goodykoontz,
AZCentral.com,
26 June 2026
Literary Hub,
23 Jan. 2026
It was also adopted by dermo-cosmetic brands for sensitive skin.
—
Kiana Murden,
Vogue,
9 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cosmetic
Adjective
If your cosmetic bag has been hanging on since the days of department store gift-with-purchase promotions, consider this your sign to retire it.
—
Alexandra Emanuelli,
Southern Living,
26 June 2026
Why worry about a cosmetic problem when there is so much going on in the world that is demonstrably more important?
—
Bill Goodykoontz,
AZCentral.com,
26 June 2026
Noun
These versatile salves might serve to treat a burn, as a facial cosmetic, or as a hair conditioner in a pinch.
—
Literary Hub,
23 Jan. 2026
It was also adopted by dermo-cosmetic brands for sensitive skin.
—
Kiana Murden,
Vogue,
9 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cosmetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cosmetic
Adjective
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In Nevada in 2021, lawmakers passed a law banning decorative grass.
-
Ornate features like pocket doors, decorative fireplaces and a Juliet balcony enhance the space.
Noun
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The lightweight formula is packed with hydrating, skin-plumping ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and aloe water, which leave me with a natural-looking, no-makeup-makeup look that’s also extremely buildable.
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Mastering how to apply cream blush can add warmth to your skin and take your makeup from flat to lively.
Adjective
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Because its founders, the Faro family, built a small empire in Sicily from an ornamental plant business that grew into one of the largest Mediterranean plant nurseries in Europe, exporting more than 5,000 varieties to 60 countries.
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These stunning ornamental shrubs showcase flower heads in a dazzling array of colors, including vibrant purples, charming pinks, and serene blues that bloom across various climates.
Noun
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The Reflecting Pools has been closed off to visitors following the peeling paint and algae in the water shortly after the renovation was initially deemed complete.
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Work with Complementary Colors While choosing a single paint shade can seem straightforward enough, pairing aquamarine with complementary colors might feel slightly more nuanced.
Noun
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This recipe skips the traditional green food coloring in favor of chives for noticeably colorful freshness.
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The coloring signals that the chicken has been cooked evenly.
Cite this Entry
“Cosmetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cosmetic. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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