sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen ˈsən-ˌskrēn 

1

: a screen to protect against sun

2

: a preparation (such as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening

ˈsən-ˌskrē-niŋ 

adjective

Examples of sunscreen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect against harmful UV rays when outside. —Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 7 June 2024

When wearing both sunscreen and repellent, apply repellent last. —Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2024

Always be sure to wear sunscreen and take breaks from the sun. —Jessica Booth, Parents, 2 June 2024

In addition to wearing sunscreen, keeping skin moisturized and treating skin issues such as acne early can help improve the appearance of your skin and limit longer-term problems such as scarring, which can be more challenging to treat. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 29 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing the sun's rays)

Medical Definition

sunscreen

noun

sun·​screen -ˌskrēn 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by chemically absorbing ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as benzophenone) compare sunblock

sunscreening adjective