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

The weather service advises people to stay hydrated, as well as apply sunscreen and to wear sunglasses, hats and lightweight clothing while outdoors. —Shawn Raymundo, AZCentral.com, 13 Mar. 2026

Do note that there’s no shade and no water on the trail, so bring plenty to drink, a good bottle of sunscreen, and start early in the day to avoid the worst of the midday heat. —Karthika Gupta, Travel + Leisure, 11 Mar. 2026

Despite its smaller stature, this crossbody bag features three helpful compartments inside for organizing your phone, wallet, lip balm, sunscreen, and more. —Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2026

Apply sunscreen every day as part of the morning routine. —Barrie Gillies, Parents, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sunscreen

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

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