sun protection factor

noun

: a number assigned to a sunscreen that is the factor by which the time required for unprotected skin to become sunburned is increased when the sunscreen is used
abbreviation SPF

Examples of sun protection factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wear sunscreen daily, especially outside, and choose one with a higher sun protection factor (SPF). Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024 Wear sunscreen: Buy a broad spectrum sunscreen lotion or spray with sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Aug. 2024 Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV rays and maintain pH by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor). Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 30 Oct. 2024 Sunscreen: To protect your skin from sun damage, finish your morning skin care routine by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sun protection factor 

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sun protection factor was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near sun protection factor

sunproof

sun protection factor

sunray

Cite this Entry

“Sun protection factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sun%20protection%20factor. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

sun protection factor

noun
: spf
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!