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

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

Check, thanks to a healthy dose of vitamin B5 and three different ceramides, which are naturally occurring lipids (or fat) in the skin. —Danielle Cohen, Glamour, 10 Apr. 2024

The shampoo also contains ceramides and proteins, which aid in repairing damaged hair, retaining moisture, and strengthening the hair to prevent breakage. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 9 Apr. 2024

This compound binds to fatty acids to mimic natural ceramides. —Lisa Desantis, Health, 22 Mar. 2024

With ingredients like 3 essential ceramides, this soap and sulfate free blend is good for women with sensitive skin. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 14 Jan. 2024

In addition to broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, the formula contains hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to help moisturize the skin barrier. —Glamour, 29 Mar. 2024

Lotions, on the other hand, penetrate the skin cell layers and use ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acids to strengthen the skin barrier function to prevent water loss. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 25 Mar. 2024

This thicker cream includes ceramides, which are fat cells that are naturally found in the skin and not only don’t disrupt the barrier but help maintain it. —Tanya Edwards, Parents, 15 Mar. 2024

It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture and three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) that restore and maintain the skin barrier. —Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Medical 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