cosmetic 1 of 2

adjective

käz-ˈme-tik How to pronounce cosmetic (audio)
Definition of cosmeticnext
as in decorative
serving to add beauty changes in the original design of the building were purely cosmetic

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

cosmetic

2 of 2

noun

as in makeup

Related Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cosmetic
Adjective
The dishwasher can cause dulling and discoloration, but those are cosmetic problems that won't affect the pan's performance. — Emily Farris, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026 Why Shop With Us Jenny Berg is a beauty writer and editor with more than a decade of experience covering skin care, makeup, and cosmetic treatments. — Jenny Berg, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
The secret ingredient in sweets, sodas and cosmetics is entangled in one of the world’s deadliest and least-noticed wars. — Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026 Specifically, Park got Lindsay and Ashley to sell unnecessary Trochos cosmetic procedures and inflated the cost. — Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cosmetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cosmetic
  1. decorative
  2. makeup
  3. ornamental
  4. paint
  5. coloring
Adjective
  • Just for the same exact reason why details should not be strictly decorative.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026
  • The decorative Seafood Tower, for example, consists of lobster, oysters, king crab legs, crab claws and shrimp.
    — Jennifer Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of decorative
Noun
  • Putting on jewelry before makeup or skin care Jewelry reacts sensitively to various environmental influences, including sweat, humidity, and harsh chemicals.
    — Larissa Ratschkowski, Glamour, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Parton turned extravagant blonde wigs, elaborate makeup, high heels, and sparkles into one of the most recognizable looks in entertainment.
    — William Arruda, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of makeup
Adjective
  • Students can explore pathways in agricultural business, agricultural science, animal science, forestry and natural resources, ornamental horticulture, plant and soil science, agricultural technologies and advancements, and agricultural mechanics.
    — Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Bulbs flower at different times and succession planting spring flowering bulbs, like crocuses, with Virginia bluebells, ornamental alliums, and other late bloomers will keep your beds colorful throughout the seasons.
    — Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of ornamental
Noun
  • The Fire turned up the pressure defensively in the paint and consistently bullied the Dream out of it.
    — Micahya Costen, AJC.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The town will unveil the renovations next month and the improvements include a new paint job on the interior of the historic building, a repaired 19th-century chalkboard pulley system and repair of the several small holes in the roof.
    — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of paint
Noun
  • Caramel coloring is allowed as long as it’s disclosed on the label.
    — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Color By Subtraction Your child can complete the subtraction problems on this coloring page.
    — Nicole Harris, Parents, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of coloring

Browse Nearby Words

cosigns
cosmetic
cosmetic case
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cosmetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cosmetic. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cosmetic

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cosmetic

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