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

The new locker room is stocked with complimentary essentials like hand warmers, lip balm, sunscreen, and slippers for relaxing in the lounge upstairs. —Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 2025

Just be sure to pack your chairs, towels, sunscreen, and a picnic lunch. —Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2025

Look no further than a sizable tote with heavy-duty handles that can hold towels, sunscreen, and six-packs effectively. —Barry Samaha, Glamour, 21 Feb. 2025

This very hydrating sunscreen (which is also from a Japanese brand) feels like a water cream, wears perfectly under makeup or alone, and has SPF 40. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 21 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sunscreen

• agin
• alkene
• allene
• ameen
• amin
• amine
• arene
• athene
• baleen
• beeline
• benzene
• between

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