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

Also, Nécessaire the Lip Balm is made with soothing skin care ingredients such as niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter; it’s approved for eczema-prone skin and even has a touch of (natural) mint to keep you feeling fresh. — Lindy Segal, Glamour, 8 Sep. 2026

Kérastase’s Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo can help, balancing a deep cleanse with density-boosting (and hydrating) ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and gluco-peptides, to plump the cuticle and reduce breakage from root-to-tip. — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 5 Sep. 2026

Hyaluronic acid hydrates your skin, while ceramides replenish the skin barrier. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 1 Sep. 2026

It is best used as part of a nourishing multi-step skincare routine that includes a ceramide-rich moisturiser, but more on that below. — Ellie Davis, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ceramide

• actinide
• aldehyde
• alkoxide
• alongside
• amplified
• arsenide
• beautified
• biocide
• bisulphide
• butoxide
• calcified
• certified

Medical Definition

ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 

: 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

Elevated plasma levels of many of the sphingolipids have also been correlated with chronic disease—for example, sphingomyelins with coronary heart disease and ceramides with type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.

—Oswald Quehenberger and Edward A. Dennis, The New England Journal of Medicine