sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen ˈsən-ˌskrēn 

1

: a screen to protect against sun

2

: a preparation (such as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening

ˈsən-ˌskrē-niŋ 

adjective

Examples of sunscreen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2022, Maui County broadened the statewide ban one step further by outlawing non-mineral sunscreens from Maui, Lanai and Molokai. —Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025

These formulas are lightweight, silky, and ridiculously good at melting off makeup, sunscreen, and grime—without leaving skin tight or greasy. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 12 Dec. 2025

That said, wearing sunscreen and limiting your time in the sun is just as effective — and remains a top dermatologist recommendation. —Jacqueline Kilikita, Refinery29, 12 Dec. 2025

Chemical sunscreens — such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, ecamsule, homosalate, octisalate and octinoxate — bind to the top layer of skin and transform UV rays into heat that disperses. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 11 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sunscreen

• agin
• alkene
• allene
• ameen
• amin
• amine
• arene
• athene
• baleen
• beeline
• benzene
• between

Kids Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing the sun's rays)

Medical Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening adjective