cosmetics
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Preparations applied externally to change or enhance the beauty of skin, hair, nails, lips, and eyes.
Noun
Examples
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
The way something looks; superficial appearance.
Noun
Examples
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
The study of such products.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “cosmetics” mean?
Preparations applied externally to change or enhance the beauty of skin, hair, nails, lips, and eyes.
Is “cosmetics” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.