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
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Boosting moisture and strengthening your skin’s barrier without ever turning oily, it’s created with a powerhouse blend of ceramides, AHAs and youth-boosting nutrients loved by makeup artists and skin care lovers.
—Tory Johnson, ABC News, 2 Mar. 2026
Infused with a blend of five ceramides and two forms of peptides, the formula is exceptionally hydrating—boasting a high-shine finish that looks identical to a glassy lip gloss.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
Collagen and ceramides, staples in Korean skin care, show up here to support hair that’s feeling weak, dry, or overworked.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Feb. 2026
Ingredients commonly recommended for mature skin include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and shea butter or similar emollients.
—Allison Palmer
updated February 25, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 2026
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Tory Johnson, ABC News, 2 Mar. 2026
Infused with a blend of five ceramides and two forms of peptides, the formula is exceptionally hydrating—boasting a high-shine finish that looks identical to a glassy lip gloss.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
Collagen and ceramides, staples in Korean skin care, show up here to support hair that’s feeling weak, dry, or overworked.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Feb. 2026
Ingredients commonly recommended for mature skin include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and shea butter or similar emollients.
—Allison Palmer
updated February 25, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 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 6 Mar. 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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