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 fragrance-free formula nourishes both scalp and lengths, with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide working together to hydrate, strengthen, and support a healthier hair environment.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2025
The formula blends niacinamide, essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica extract into a base of luxe shea butter to restore and strengthen the lips’ delicate skin.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 25 Oct. 2025
Use the right barrier repair moisturizer Barrier repair moisturizers mimic the 1:1:1 ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids found in your skin’s natural barrier to help strengthen, protect and repair it.
—Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2025
CeraVe Blemish Barrier Patches are the first and only hydrocolloid blemish patches with three essential ceramides plus niacinamide, helping to soothe the skin while immediately reducing the appearance of all types of blemishes upon application.
—Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Oct. 2025
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Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2025
The formula blends niacinamide, essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica extract into a base of luxe shea butter to restore and strengthen the lips’ delicate skin.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 25 Oct. 2025
Use the right barrier repair moisturizer Barrier repair moisturizers mimic the 1:1:1 ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids found in your skin’s natural barrier to help strengthen, protect and repair it.
—Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2025
CeraVe Blemish Barrier Patches are the first and only hydrocolloid blemish patches with three essential ceramides plus niacinamide, helping to soothe the skin while immediately reducing the appearance of all types of blemishes upon application.
—Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Oct. 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 3 Nov. 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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