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
This wash is rich in niacinamide (which can rev up ceramide production for a stronger moisture barrier) and shea butter, which is packed with fatty acids that work together with the lipids in your skin to help your barrier function properly.
—Ian Michael Crumm, Allure, 11 Dec. 2025
That’s thanks in part to the combination of humectants (hyaluronic acid, in five molecular weights, and polyglutamic acid) and moisture-sealing lipids (murumuru butter and ceramides).
—Deanna Pai, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025
Hydrating skincare ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants can help smooth the skin's surface and improve wear time.
—Grace McCarty, Glamour, 21 Nov. 2025
Look for formulas that have hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2025
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Ian Michael Crumm, Allure, 11 Dec. 2025
That’s thanks in part to the combination of humectants (hyaluronic acid, in five molecular weights, and polyglutamic acid) and moisture-sealing lipids (murumuru butter and ceramides).
—Deanna Pai, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025
Hydrating skincare ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants can help smooth the skin's surface and improve wear time.
—Grace McCarty, Glamour, 21 Nov. 2025
Look for formulas that have hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 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 14 Dec. 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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