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
It’s formulated for eczema—the hero ingredients are colloidal oatmeal, which will soothe skin, and ceramides, which work to repair the moisture barrier.
—Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 15 Apr. 2025
Omega ceramide, cholesterol, and fatty acids work to strengthen a weakened skin barrier while eight types of hyaluronic acids in different low, medium, and high molecules keep the skin hydrated—in other words, wow.
—Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides / Fragrance: Fragrance-free / Size: 19 oz.
—Marilyn La Jeunesse, Glamour, 14 Apr. 2025
Aqua Bomb, as its name would suggest, is a burst of refreshing moisture that's infused with a conditioning mix of ceramides and glycerin, as well as niacinamide to even out skin tone (perfect for anyone dealing with post-acne dark spots).
—Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 3 Apr. 2025
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Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 15 Apr. 2025
Omega ceramide, cholesterol, and fatty acids work to strengthen a weakened skin barrier while eight types of hyaluronic acids in different low, medium, and high molecules keep the skin hydrated—in other words, wow.
—Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides / Fragrance: Fragrance-free / Size: 19 oz.
—Marilyn La Jeunesse, Glamour, 14 Apr. 2025
Aqua Bomb, as its name would suggest, is a burst of refreshing moisture that's infused with a conditioning mix of ceramides and glycerin, as well as niacinamide to even out skin tone (perfect for anyone dealing with post-acne dark spots).
—Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ceramide
Cite this Entry
“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.
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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