zinc oxide

noun

: an infusible white solid ZnO used especially as a pigment, in compounding rubber, and in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations (such as ointments and sunblocks)

Examples of zinc oxide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Mineral sunscreens rely on zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block or reflect the rays. Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 5 July 2024 Their active ingredients—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—are technically naturally occurring minerals, but synthetic versions are used in sunscreen formulations. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 27 June 2024 Purchase a reputable sunscreen that contains a minimum SPF 30 and contains a mineral ingredient like titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. Danielle Sinay, Glamour, 26 June 2024 Kids’ sunscreen is often created with mineral ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and with sensitive skin in mind. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 17 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for zinc oxide 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'zinc oxide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zinc oxide was in 1849

Dictionary Entries Near zinc oxide

Cite this Entry

“Zinc oxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zinc%20oxide. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

zinc oxide

noun
: a white substance that is used as a white pigment, is added to rubber, and is used in medical and cosmetic preparations (as ointments and sunblocks)

Medical Definition

zinc oxide

noun
: a white solid ZnO used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations (as ointments and powders)

More from Merriam-Webster on zinc oxide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!