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
Collagen production and cell turnover slow, while ceramides and natural oils decline, leaving the skin less resilient to cold, dry air.
—Colleen Sullivan, InStyle, 10 Jan. 2026
This overnight treatment has ceramides to support your lips’ natural moisture barrier and a subtle peppermint flavor for a fresh tingle.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 5 Jan. 2026
Rich, without being too heavy, and packed with fatty acids, peptides, ceramides, glycerin, and squalane, the product has held universal appeal since its 2022 launch—apt for both hydration and skin barrier repair.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 4 Jan. 2026
Instead of sitting on top of the hair, the formula uses bio-protein care and glutamic amino serum to feed the fiber with usable amino acids that help refill structural gaps, while ceramides and conditioning agents smooth the cuticle so strands bend without snapping.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 31 Dec. 2025
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Colleen Sullivan, InStyle, 10 Jan. 2026
This overnight treatment has ceramides to support your lips’ natural moisture barrier and a subtle peppermint flavor for a fresh tingle.
—Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 5 Jan. 2026
Rich, without being too heavy, and packed with fatty acids, peptides, ceramides, glycerin, and squalane, the product has held universal appeal since its 2022 launch—apt for both hydration and skin barrier repair.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 4 Jan. 2026
Instead of sitting on top of the hair, the formula uses bio-protein care and glutamic amino serum to feed the fiber with usable amino acids that help refill structural gaps, while ceramides and conditioning agents smooth the cuticle so strands bend without snapping.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 31 Dec. 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 11 Jan. 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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