ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd How to pronounce ceramide (audio)
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
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.
The 10% pure L-ascorbic acid works to fight against free radical damage and even out skin tone, while a blend of hyaluronic acid and ceramides helps hydrate skin and fortify the skin barrier. — Deanna Pai, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026 Tea tree leaf water and niacinamide prevent breakouts and tackle redness, while glycerin, panthenol, and ceramides keep skin hydrated and supported. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 7 Oct. 2026 Try out the difference for yourself with this bifurcated serum-and-cream offering that calms, hydrates, and firms thanks to said truffles, sure, but also hyaluronic acid, panthenol, ceramides, and other good-for-skin ingredients. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026 With nearly 8,000 five-star Amazon ratings, this popular hair mask has ceramides and a repair concentrate to strengthen weak, brittle hair and support healthy growth. — Kim Grundy, InStyle, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ceramide

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ceramide was in 1958

Rhymes for ceramide

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Browse Nearby Words

ceramic mosaic
ceramide
ceramist
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Cite this Entry

“Ceramide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramide. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

ceramide

noun
cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd How to pronounce ceramide (audio)
: 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
Elevated plasma levels of many of the sphingolipids have also been correlated with chronic disease—for example, sphingomyelins with coronary heart disease and ceramides with type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.—Oswald Quehenberger and Edward A. Dennis, The New England Journal of Medicine

More from Merriam-Webster on ceramide

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ceramide

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