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

Moisturizers 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

Examples of ceramide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The lightweight, oil-free cream sinks in effortlessly, instantly soothing skin with a refreshing dose of prebiotic thermal water and barrier-repairing ceramides. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 27 June 2025

There's hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide to soothe irritation, and three essential ceramides to improve the skin barrier. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 19 June 2025

May Boost Skin Health and Hydration Research suggests magnesium can improve skin hydration, how well your skin absorbs moisture, and skin barrier function, especially when combined with other ingredients like ceramides. —Health, 16 June 2025

Its key ingredients include ceramides and vitamin E, both of which help moisturize and strengthen skin. —Sara Coughlin, SELF, 13 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ceramide

• actinide
• aldehyde
• alkoxide
• alongside
• amplified
• arsenide
• beautified
• biocide
• butoxide
• calcified
• certified
• citywide

Medical 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