ceramide
noun
cer·amide
ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 
ˈser-
plural ceramides
: any of various simple sphingolipids that are composed of a fatty acid linked to sphingosine, are found especially in cell membranes, are involved in mediating various cellular processes (such as those affecting cell differentiation and apoptosis), and act as precursors for more complex sphingolipids
The enzyme controls production of a cellular substance, ceramide, which triggers the natural process of egg cell death.—
L. Stivitz
L. StivitzMoisturizers containing ceramides (natural lipids that are similar in structure to those in the skin's own moisture barrier) … are also worthwhile splurges for women with dry or problem skin, according to independent tester Grove.—Constance Cardozo
Constance CardozoExamples of ceramide in a Sentence
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Stocked with her bestselling shampoo and conditioner, which harness ceramides, pea peptides, and botanical ingredients to strengthen the hair and boost shine, the set also includes the Willow Glen Treatment Oil and the Santa Lucia Styling Oil.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025
Packed with anti-aging ingredients, actives, and ceramides, they’re built to target issues and deliver serious results.
—Essence, 30 Sep. 2025
The ultralight hydrator does everything a richer formula does for your barrier—protect (with honey, a humectant), strengthen (with ceramides), and moisture (with squalene)—but in a cooling gel texture that feels light and refreshing.
—Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
The gentle serum contains an impressive line-up of ingredients, including cutting-edge kimchi exosomes, peptides and a trio of restorative ceramides, that work to hydrate, lock in moisture and minimise signs of ageing.
—Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
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Jenny Berg, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025
Packed with anti-aging ingredients, actives, and ceramides, they’re built to target issues and deliver serious results.
—Essence, 30 Sep. 2025
The ultralight hydrator does everything a richer formula does for your barrier—protect (with honey, a humectant), strengthen (with ceramides), and moisture (with squalene)—but in a cooling gel texture that feels light and refreshing.
—Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
The gentle serum contains an impressive line-up of ingredients, including cutting-edge kimchi exosomes, peptides and a trio of restorative ceramides, that work to hydrate, lock in moisture and minimise signs of ageing.
—Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ceramide
Cite this Entry
“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
ceramide
noun
cer·amide
ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd
: any of a group of amido sphingolipids formed by linking a fatty acid to sphingosine and found widely in small amounts in plant and animal tissue
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