Sunscreen
SUN-skreen
/ˈsʌnskriːn/
A cream, lotion, or spray applied to the skin to protect it from harmful ultraviolet solar radiation.
Refers specifically to topically applied skincare preparations that block or absorb UV rays.
The story behind the word. The compound word emerged in the mid-20th century as chemical formulations were created to screen out damage caused by solar rays. 'Screen' comes from Middle English 'skren', meaning a protective barrier against cold or danger.
Word relationships
- sunblock: Sunblock physical creates an opaque barrier reflecting UV light, whereas sunscreen chemical absorbs UV rays into the skin.
- suntan lotion: Suntan lotion encourages skin darkening and often contains lower SPF than protective sunscreen.
- tanning oil: Tanning oil accelerates UV absorption, whereas sunscreen blocks ultraviolet radiation.
Commonly confused with
- sunshade: A sunshade is a physical structure or umbrella providing shadow, whereas sunscreen is a topical lotion.
Word family
- sunscreen (noun): protective topical cream for UV light
Collocations
- apply sunscreen
- broad-spectrum sunscreen
- water-resistant sunscreen
- slather on sunscreen
Example sentences
- "Dermatologists advise applying broad-spectrum sunscreen thirty minutes before stepping out onto the sand." Beach safety advice
- "Before heading off to the resort, she made sure her tote bag contained water, sunglasses, and a bottle of mineral sunscreen." Vacation packing list
Memory hook
Think of a physical SCREEN door blocking bugs—SUNSCREEN acts like a microscopic screen blocking UV rays. Screen the sun away from your skin.
When not to use
Do not use to refer to physical physical shades like umbrellas or awnings; those are sunshades or awnings.
Fun facts
- The first effective commercial sunscreens were developed during World War II to protect soldiers stationed in sunny tropical battlefields.
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