cosmetology

noun

cos·​me·​tol·​o·​gy ˌkäz-mə-ˈtä-lə-jē 

: the cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair, and nails

Examples of cosmetology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Complete with four attachments—a concentrator, diffuser, brush, and finisher—this do-it-all hair dryer is the next best thing to a cosmetology school diploma. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 26 Nov. 2025

For example, Santiago Canyon College offers a comprehensive array of courses and apprenticeship programs in everything from environmental management, cosmetology and biotechnology to water conservation, real estate appraisal and an impressive range of carpentry specialties. —Larry D. Urish, Oc Register, 25 Nov. 2025

Today the Manual Career & Technical Center (built on the same site) offers auto repair, construction, cosmetology and culinary training, fashion design, and a long list of other 21st Century trades. —Randy Mason, Kansas City Star, 12 Nov. 2025

Peasley, 13, plans to attend trade school to earn her cosmetology license, and later pursue a degree to become a financial adviser. —Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French cosmétologie, from cosmétique cosmetic (from English cosmetic) + -logie -logy

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cosmetology

• aetiology
• anthropology
• archaeology
• archeology
• audiology
• cardiology
• climatology
• cohomology
• criminology
• demonology
• dermatology
• egyptology

Medical Definition

cosmetology

noun

cos·​me·​tol·​o·​gy -jē 

plural cosmetologies

: the cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair, and nails