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 study’s authors framed hearing loss as one of the most easily modifiable dementia risk factors, making early amplification a proactive health decision rather than a cosmetic one. — Allison Palmer july 2, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 July 2026 Which explains why her practice offers services that range from medical such as treating skin tags and alopecia, to surgical, to cosmetic procedure such as microneedling, PRP, fillers, and Sculptra. — Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Noun
This year’s cohort included a luxury fashion and cosmetics mogul; an oil tycoon; a casino magnate; and the founder of lending giant Rocket Mortgage. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 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
  • In Nevada in 2021, lawmakers passed a law banning decorative grass.
    — Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 1 July 2026
  • Ornate features like pocket doors, decorative fireplaces and a Juliet balcony enhance the space.
    — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026
Definition of decorative
Noun
  • The lightweight formula is packed with hydrating, skin-plumping ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and aloe water, which leave me with a natural-looking, no-makeup-makeup look that’s also extremely buildable.
    — Melony Forcier, InStyle, 5 July 2026
  • Mastering how to apply cream blush can add warmth to your skin and take your makeup from flat to lively.
    — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 3 July 2026
Definition of makeup
Adjective
  • Because its founders, the Faro family, built a small empire in Sicily from an ornamental plant business that grew into one of the largest Mediterranean plant nurseries in Europe, exporting more than 5,000 varieties to 60 countries.
    — Winston Ross, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • These stunning ornamental shrubs showcase flower heads in a dazzling array of colors, including vibrant purples, charming pinks, and serene blues that bloom across various climates.
    — SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026
Definition of ornamental
Noun
  • The Reflecting Pools has been closed off to visitors following the peeling paint and algae in the water shortly after the renovation was initially deemed complete.
    — Nicholas Kerr, ABC News, 4 July 2026
  • Work with Complementary Colors While choosing a single paint shade can seem straightforward enough, pairing aquamarine with complementary colors might feel slightly more nuanced.
    — Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 July 2026
Definition of paint
Noun
  • This recipe skips the traditional green food coloring in favor of chives for noticeably colorful freshness.
    — Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 1 July 2026
  • The coloring signals that the chicken has been cooked evenly.
    — Saleen Martin, USA Today, 30 June 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 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cosmetic

Nglish: Translation of cosmetic for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cosmetic

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