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 kitchen sources produce locally, and the resort provides reef-safe sunscreen. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

The false claim that sunscreen causes skin cancer has persuaded many young people, including Wallace, not to use it at all. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 June 2026

This bag was ideal to carry my portable charger, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, wallet, and a bottle of water for off-ship excursions. —Cassie Gill, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2026

Fox News Digital observed stockpiles of masks, duct tape, medical supplies, sunscreen, hard hats, goggles and other protective gear in containers and laid out on tables near the protest site. —Stephen Sorace , Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 31 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sunscreen

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

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