aloe vera

noun

-ˈver-ə  -ˈvir- 

: an aloe (Aloe barbadensis synonym A. vera) whose leaves furnish a gelatinous emollient extract used especially in cosmetics and skin creams

also : such an extract or a preparation composed primarily of such an extract

Examples of aloe vera in a Sentence

a skin cream that contains aloe vera

Recent Examples on the Web

Keep an eye out for humectants like glycerin or aloe vera, which draw moisture into the hair, keeping your curls hydrated and bouncy. —Erin Parker, Allure, 16 Oct. 2024

It’s enriched with a blend of gardenia extract, rosewater, aloe vera, thyme, and even seaweed extract. —Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 10 Oct. 2024

Good alternatives include Vaseline, aloe vera, or even coconut oil. —Katie Liu, Discover Magazine, 7 Oct. 2024

Their soft, storyteller vibe and lovely harmonies felt like aloe vera for the soul. —Charlie Mason, TVLine, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, species name, from Aloe + Latin vera, feminine of verus true — more at very entry 2

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

aloe vera

noun

-ˈver-ə  -ˈvir- 

: an aloe plant whose leaves contain a jellylike substance that is soothing to the skin

also : such a substance or a preparation consisting mostly of such a substance

Medical Definition

aloe vera

noun

-ˈver-ə  -ˈvir- 

1

: a plant of the genus Aloe (A. barbadensis synonym A. vera) whose leaves furnish a gelatinous emollient extract used especially in cosmetics and skin creams

2

: an extract of the aloe vera plant

also : a preparation composed predominantly of such an extract