cellulite

noun

cel·​lu·​lite ˈsel-yə-ˌlīt How to pronounce cellulite (audio) -ˌlēt How to pronounce cellulite (audio)
: deposits of subcutaneous fat within fibrous connective tissue (as in the thighs, hips, and buttocks) that give a puckered and dimpled appearance to the skin surface

Examples of cellulite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment dramatically lifts, firms, and tightens sagging, crepey skin and smooths the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026 A bit greasy This toning body cream helps target cellulite on the legs by eliminating bumps and uneven texture. Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 6 Mar. 2026 Cuffy writes her heroine Cece’s body with care and precision, evoking sweat and smells, cellulite and lost toenails. Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 26 Feb. 2026 Through everything from Kobido, a type of Japanese massage that is often referred to as a manual face lift, to endermologie, a kind of body work that reduces cellulite, the French are leaning into the thesis that non-invasive doesn’t mean ineffective. Hannah Seligson, Vanity Fair, 12 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cellulite

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, accumulation of subcutaneous fat, cellulitis, from cellule cell + -ite -itis

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cellulite was in 1968

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cellulite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cellulite. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.

Medical Definition

cellulite

noun
cel·​lu·​lite ˈsel-yə-ˌlīt How to pronounce cellulite (audio) -ˌlēt How to pronounce cellulite (audio)
: deposits of subcutaneous fat within fibrous connective tissue (as in the thighs, hips, and buttocks) that give a puckered and dimpled appearance to the skin surface
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster