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

Belif’s Hydrate & Go Kit keeps things simple with a moisturizer, toner, SPF 45 sunscreen, and eye cream that work together to deeply hydrate, strengthen your barrier, and protect against UV in one easy routine. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 2 Dec. 2025

So pack your hiking boots, sunscreen, first aid kit, and water bottle—and download the NPS app to access interactive trail maps. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 1 Dec. 2025

People covering their bodies or using high SPF sunscreens absorb less vitamin D from sunlight. —Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 1 Dec. 2025

My combination skin also felt softer when applying my moisturizers, serums, and sunscreen. —Jasmine Thompson, Health, 30 Nov. 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