English

Adjective

cosmetic ‎(comparative more cosmetic, superlative most cosmetic)

1. Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion.

   a cosmetic preparation

   • Alexander Pope

     First, robed in white, the nymph intent adores, / With head uncovered, the cosmetic powers.

2. External or superficial; pertaining only to the surface or appearance of something.

   Fortunately, the damage to the house was mostly cosmetic and a bit of paint covered it nicely.

Related terms

• cosmetics
• cosmos

Derived terms

• cosmetic surgery

Translations

Noun

cosmetic ‎(plural cosmetics)

1. Any substances applied to enhance the external color or texture of the skin, e.g. lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner; makeup.
2. A feature existing only on the surface.

Hyponyms

• See also Wikisaurus:toiletry

Translations

See also

• makeup