English · Word Candidate

cosmetic

/kɒzˈmɛtɪk/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: cosmetics

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion.

Adjective

Examples

a cosmetic preparation

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

External or superficial; pertaining only to the surface or appearance of something.

Adjective

Examples

Fortunately, the damage to the house was mostly cosmetic and a bit of paint covered it nicely.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Any substances applied to enhance the external color or texture of the skin, e.g. lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner.

Noun

Examples

These endocrine disruptors are everywhere: plastics, shampoos, cosmetics, cushions, pesticides, canned foods and A.T.M. receipts. They often aren’t on labels and can be difficult to avoid.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A feature existing only on the surface.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “cosmetic” mean?

Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion.

Is “cosmetic” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.