cosmetic

[ koz-met-ik ]
/ kɒzˈmɛt ɪk /

noun

a powder, lotion, lipstick, rouge, or other preparation for beautifying the face, skin, hair, nails, etc.
cosmetics, superficial measures to make something appear better, more attractive, or more impressive: The budget committee opted for cosmetics instead of a serious urban renewal plan.

adjective

serving to beautify; imparting or improving beauty, especially of the face.
used or done superficially to make something look better, more attractive, or more impressive: Alterations in the concert hall were only cosmetic and did nothing to improve the acoustics.

Origin of cosmetic

1595–1605; < Greek kosmētikós relating to adornment, equivalent to kosmēt(ós) adorned, arranged (verbid of kosmeîn, derivative of kósmos order, arrangement) + -ikos -ic

OTHER WORDS FROM cosmetic

cos·met·i·cal·ly, adverb an·ti·cos·met·ics, adjective

Words nearby cosmetic

cosimo, cosimo i, cosine, cosla, cosm-, cosmetic, cosmetic surgery, cosmetician, cosmeticize, cosmetize, cosmetologist

Example sentences from the Web for cosmetically

British Dictionary definitions for cosmetically

cosmetic
/ (kɒzˈmɛtɪk) /

noun

any preparation applied to the body, esp the face, with the intention of beautifying it

adjective

serving or designed to beautify the body, esp the face
having no other function than to beautify cosmetic illustrations in a book
derogatory designed to cover up a greater flaw or deficiency; superficial their resignation is a cosmetic exercise

Derived forms of cosmetic

cosmetically, adverb cosmeticology, noun

Word Origin for cosmetic

C17: from Greek kosmētikos, from kosmein to arrange, from kosmos order

Medical definitions for cosmetically

cosmetic
[ kŏz-mĕt′ĭk ]

n.

A preparation, such as powder or a skin cream, designed to beautify the body by direct application.

adj.

Serving to beautify the body, especially the face and hair.
Serving to modify or improve the appearance of a physical feature, defect, or irregularity.