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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

When the sunny days do come, be sure to use sunscreen that's been graded as safe for coral reefs in order to help protect the state's natural gifts. —Lori A. May, Chron, 19 Mar. 2023

That, with our moisturizer, in the evenings and the night, and our sunscreen during the day, is just a game-changer. —Chelsey Sanchez, Harper's BAZAAR, 16 Mar. 2023

Other garden party ideas to make your guests comfortable include supplying sunscreen and sunglasses or having cup koozies to keep drinks cold. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Mar. 2023

The sunscreen was apparent on Casas's face during a recent spring game. —Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 9 Mar. 2023

Cabanas, those curtained-off retreats with TVs, padded lounge chairs, couches, trendy sunscreen and other perks, are fetching eye-popping prices as the travel boom stokes demand. —Dawn Gilbertson, WSJ, 8 Mar. 2023

The reef-safe sunscreen is a fan-favorite for its fast-absorbing formula and reliable broad-spectrum coverage, which is water resistant up to 80 minutes. —Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 6 Mar. 2023

Skin cancer also occurs in darker skinned individuals, if less commonly, so sunscreen is important for everyone, regardless of their skin tone. —Angus Chen And Rachel Cohrs, STAT, 3 Mar. 2023

First and foremost, protect your skin from sun exposure by using a daily sunscreen to avoid premature signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration. —Tish Weinstock, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2023

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Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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