COSMETIC

cosmetic, enhancive

(adjective) serving an aesthetic purpose in beautifying the body; “cosmetic surgery”; “enhansive makeup”

cosmetic, decorative, ornamental

(adjective) serving an esthetic rather than a useful purpose; “cosmetic fenders on cars”; “the buildings were utilitarian rather than decorative”

cosmetic

(noun) a toiletry designed to beautify the body

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Adjective

cosmetic (comparative more cosmetic, superlative most cosmetic)

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

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

Noun

cosmetic (plural cosmetics)

Any substances applied to enhance the external color or texture of the skin, e.g. lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner; makeup.

A feature existing only on the surface.

Synonyms

• (substances enhance external color or texture): beauty products, makeup, product, slap, war paint

Hyponyms

• (substances enhance external color or texture): See also toiletry

Source: Wiktionary

Cos*met"ic (kz-mt"k), Cos*met"ic*al (--kal), a. Etym: [Gr. kosmitiko`s skilled in decorating, fr. ko`smos order, ornament: cf. F. cosmétique. See Cosmos.]

Definition: Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion; as, a cosmetical preparation. First, robed in white, the nymph intent adores, With head uncovered, the cosmetic powers. Pope.

Cos*met"ic, n.

Definition: Any external application intended to beautify and improve the complexion.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition