ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 

ˈser-

plural ceramides

: any of various simple sphingolipids that are composed of a fatty acid linked to sphingosine, are found especially in cell membranes, are involved in mediating various cellular processes (such as those affecting cell differentiation and apoptosis), and act as precursors for more complex sphingolipids

The enzyme controls production of a cellular substance, ceramide, which triggers the natural process of egg cell death.

—L. Stivitz

Moisturizers containing ceramides (natural lipids that are similar in structure to those in the skin's own moisture barrier) … are also worthwhile splurges for women with dry or problem skin, according to independent tester Grove.

—Constance Cardozo

Examples of ceramide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The fruit, specifically 100% Turkish pomegranate concentrate, leads BB LAB’s beloved supplement—alongside 1,000 mg of marine collagen plus hyaluronic acid, milk ceramides, and elastin to support skin elasticity. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 14 Mar. 2025

Buy Paula’s Choice Retinol Treatment Cream for $65 at Amazon CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum Gentle but effective, this serum combines retinol with ceramides to reduce wrinkles while keeping your skin barrier happy. —Maria Correa, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025

Use moisturizers with emollients, ceramides, and humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 22 Jan. 2025

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C | Size: 1 oz. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 27 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ceramide

• actinide
• aldehyde
• alkoxide
• alongside
• amplified
• arsenide
• beautified
• biocide
• butoxide
• calcified
• certified
• citywide

Medical Definition

ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 

: any of a group of amido sphingolipids formed by linking a fatty acid to sphingosine and found widely in small amounts in plant and animal tissue