cosmetics
3 synonyms for cosmetics, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Makeup and other products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
beauty products
toiletries
How to use cosmetics
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
cosmetics industry
natural cosmetics
cosmetics counter
Etymology
Came into English via French cosmétique, from Ancient Greek κοσμητική (kosmētikḗ, “the art of dress and ornament”), from κοσμητικός (kosmētikós), an adjective formed from κοσμέω (kosméō, “to order, to arrange, to rule, to adorn, to equip, to dress, to embellish”).
Full origin of cosmetics →Frequently asked questions
What does “cosmetics” mean?
The word “cosmetics” means makeup and other products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance. In plain terms, makeup and beauty products in general.
How do you pronounce “cosmetics”?
“Cosmetics” is pronounced koz-MEHT-ihks (/kɑzˈmɛt.ɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “cosmetics” in a sentence?
Here is “cosmetics” used in a sentence: “The store's cosmetics counter was crowded with people testing new lipsticks.”
What part of speech is “cosmetics”?
“Cosmetics” is a noun.
Is “cosmetics” a common word?
“Cosmetics” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "cosmetics" and "skincare"?
"Cosmetics" broadly covers makeup and other products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance, while "skincare" specifically refers to products aimed at maintaining or improving skin health, such as moisturizers and cleansers. Skincare products can be considered a category within the wider field of cosmetics.
Does "cosmetics" only refer to makeup like foundation and lipstick?
No, "cosmetics" is a broader term that includes not just makeup but any products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance, such as nail polish and certain hair treatments.
Is "cosmetics" always used as a plural noun?
Yes, "cosmetics" is typically used in the plural to refer to the category of products collectively, as in "a range of cosmetics," rather than referring to a single item.
