sunblock

noun

sun·​block ˈsən-ˌbläk 

: a preparation (such as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by physically blocking out ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (such as titanium dioxide) compare sunscreen

Examples of sunblock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Wiley kayaked for hours in laps around the lake, white sunblock striped under her eyes like a football player’s eye black. —Jack Prator, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Aug. 2025

Our toes have been taped, we’re lathered in sunblock, sprayed with insect repellant, and ready (or not) for a two or four hour morning hike. —Jennifer Leigh Parker, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2025

Get on your sunblock, because a lot of our picks take place outside. —Caroline Ritzie, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Gather your camping chairs, sunblock and cold drinks, because the north suburbs have plenty of fun planned for the Fourth of July holiday. —Pioneer Press, Chicago Tribune, 25 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sunblock

• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk
• catwalk
• cornstalk
• crosswalk
• deadlock
• feedstock
• fetlock
• flintlock
• goshawk

Kids Definition

sunblock

noun

sun·​block -ˌbläk 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by physically blocking out the sun's rays)

Medical Definition

sunblock

noun

sun·​block ˈsən-ˌbläk 

: a preparation (as a lotion) applied to the skin to prevent sunburn (as by physically blocking out ultraviolet radiation)

also : its active ingredient (as titanium dioxide) compare sunscreen