Cosmetics Definition: Beauty Products & Makeup Guide

Meaning 1：beauty products (cosmetics)

cosmetics 🔊

/kɑːzˈmetɪks/

Things you put on your face or body to look better, like makeup or skincare products.

Cosmetics arranged on vanity: foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow, and brushes

beauty products 🔊

➕

/ˈbjuːti ˈprɒdʌkts/

Substances or preparations applied to the face or body to enhance appearance, cleanse, or protect the skin, including makeup, lotions, and powders.

📁 Category：Fashion Trends 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'kosmētikos' (skilled in adornment), from 'kosmos' (order, ornament).

💡 Mnemonic

Cosmetics make your face look 'cosmic' (out of this world)!

📖 Example

She spent an hour at the cosmetics counter, trying different lipsticks until she found the perfect shade. 🔊 She spent an hour at the cosmetics counter, trying different lipsticks until she found the perfect shade.

🔗 Collocations

cosmetics industry – The business sector that produces and sells beauty products

cosmetics counter – A dedicated section in a store where cosmetics are displayed and sold

cosmetics brands – Companies that manufacture and market beauty products

🔄 Synonyms

makeup (n.) – Products applied to the face to enhance appearance, such as lipstick, eyeshadow, and foundation.

skincare products (n. phrase) – Items designed to care for the skin, including cleansers, moisturizers, and serums.

beauty products (n. phrase) – A general term for any product used to improve or maintain physical attractiveness.

🚫 Antonyms

natural state (n. phrase) – The condition of a person's face or body without any applied products or artificial enhancement.

bare face (n. phrase) – A face completely free of makeup or cosmetics.

🌱 Derivatives

cosmetic (adj.) – Relating to treatments intended to improve appearance.

cosmetologist (n.) – A professional trained in applying cosmetics and skincare treatments.

cosmetology (n.) – The study and practice of beauty treatments, including makeup and skin care.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Greek 'kosmētikos,' meaning 'skilled in adornment,' linked to 'cosmos' (order). Ancient Greeks used cosmetics for both beauty and ritual; the term entered English in the 17th century.