noun
Uncommon
cosmetics
koz-MEHT-ihks
Cosmetics (noun) means Makeup and other products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance. Example: “The store's cosmetics counter was crowded with people testing new lipsticks.”
noun
1
Makeup and other products applied to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance appearance.
"The store's cosmetics counter was crowded with people testing new lipsticks."
How to use cosmetics
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMakeup and beauty products in general.
Common pairings
cosmetics industry
natural cosmetics
cosmetics counter
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The store's _____ counter was crowded with people testing new lipsticks.
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”).
Synonyms
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Rhymes for cosmetics
See all rhymes for 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.
