sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen ˈsən-ˌskrēn 

1

: a screen to protect against sun

2

: a preparation (such as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening

ˈsən-ˌskrē-niŋ 

adjective

Examples of sunscreen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Participants should bring a chair, binoculars, a hat and sunscreen, the release said. —Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 8 May 2026

But there is a growing movement among wellness influencers who tout sun exposure as healthy and decry sunscreen as toxic. —Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 8 May 2026

Have a hat and sunscreen as protection from the sun. —Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 8 May 2026

Dermatologists urge wearing sunscreen to protect against sun damage. —Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sunscreen

• agin
• alkene
• allene
• ameen
• amin
• arene
• athene
• baleen
• beeline
• benzene
• between
• bromine

Kids Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing the sun's rays)

Medical Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening adjective