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

Twist out more for heavy makeup days, or less for just sunscreen. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 9 Oct. 2025

No one wants to be the person reminding everyone to reapply sunscreen or drink water between tequila shots. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 9 Oct. 2025

For me, that’s my phone charger, lip balm, sunscreen, Apple AirPods, extra contacts, and my wallet. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025

Featherlight and dewy, this serum-texture sunscreen from Mixsoon delivers serious SPF 50+ protection with a skin-loving boost. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2025

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