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

After the tattoo has healed, apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going out into the sun. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 7 Aug. 2025

But rubbing in sunscreen is especially hard for me. —Ashley Jones, Travel + Leisure, 6 Aug. 2025

People should ideally avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. People are also advised to wear lightweight and loose-fitted clothing, as well as drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and even eat lighter meals. —Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Aug. 2025

The foundation pigments and physical sunscreens providing SPF 15 protection. —Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 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