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
Rosemary oil—one of the key ingredients in the mask—is like hair-growth gold, but ceramides, jojoba, and keratin are also present in the strengthening and thickening formula.
—Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 10 Feb. 2026
Enriched with skin-barrier-boosting ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and natural butters, the blush reflects the brand’s skincare-first philosophy.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 9 Feb. 2026
This ultrafine spray delivers ceramides and a lipid complex—a mix of ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol that mimic your skin’s natural lipids—to calm skin, lock in moisture, and strengthen the barrier.
—Lily Wohlner, Allure, 1 Feb. 2026
With a combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, the CeraVe Eye Repair Cream’s hydrating formula is designed to depuff and reduce dark circles while leaving your eyes feeling refreshed and awake.
—Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 24 Jan. 2026
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Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 10 Feb. 2026
Enriched with skin-barrier-boosting ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and natural butters, the blush reflects the brand’s skincare-first philosophy.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 9 Feb. 2026
This ultrafine spray delivers ceramides and a lipid complex—a mix of ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol that mimic your skin’s natural lipids—to calm skin, lock in moisture, and strengthen the barrier.
—Lily Wohlner, Allure, 1 Feb. 2026
With a combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, the CeraVe Eye Repair Cream’s hydrating formula is designed to depuff and reduce dark circles while leaving your eyes feeling refreshed and awake.
—Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 24 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ceramide
Cite this Entry
“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
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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