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
Recent Examples on the Web
Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are all great ingredients for boosting your skin’s hydration and keeping your skin barrier healthy in the later decades of life, Dr. Penzi says.
—Sara Coughlin, SELF, 20 June 2024
Consider the gentle cleanser, infused with the brand’s prebiotic thermal water and ceramides to retain skin’s moisture.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 June 2024
Find it on Amazon A Cream Moisturizer for a Long-Lasting Glow
Infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, this cream moisturizer leaves your skin feeling soft and supple.
—Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 18 June 2024
The skincare-first sunscreen boosts lots of key ingredients: essential ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin.
—Meaghan Kenny, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for ceramide 
Sara Coughlin, SELF, 20 June 2024
Consider the gentle cleanser, infused with the brand’s prebiotic thermal water and ceramides to retain skin’s moisture.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 June 2024
Find it on Amazon A Cream Moisturizer for a Long-Lasting Glow
Infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, this cream moisturizer leaves your skin feeling soft and supple.
—Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 18 June 2024
The skincare-first sunscreen boosts lots of key ingredients: essential ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin.
—Meaghan Kenny, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for ceramide
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ceramide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.
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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