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
We’re obsessed with Saltair’s debut featuring a range of moisturizing and nourishing ingredients such as coconut oil and ceramides.
—Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025
Each one is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, niacinamide, and ceramides to hydrate, support the skin barrier, and keep oil production in check.
—Iman Balagam, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2025
The fragrance-free cream offers a big hit of hydration thanks to ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, and the brand’s signature thermal spring water, which soothes the skin.
—Allure, 30 Aug. 2025
Cloud Cushion is also packed with ceramides, plant derivatives like snow mushroom, chamomile, and black seed extract, which work to protect the skin barrier, soothe the skin, and provide deep-layer hydration all at once.
—Essence, 26 Aug. 2025
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Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025
Each one is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, niacinamide, and ceramides to hydrate, support the skin barrier, and keep oil production in check.
—Iman Balagam, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2025
The fragrance-free cream offers a big hit of hydration thanks to ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, and the brand’s signature thermal spring water, which soothes the skin.
—Allure, 30 Aug. 2025
Cloud Cushion is also packed with ceramides, plant derivatives like snow mushroom, chamomile, and black seed extract, which work to protect the skin barrier, soothe the skin, and provide deep-layer hydration all at once.
—Essence, 26 Aug. 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 12 Sep. 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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