Langimage
English

pro-cosmetic

|pro-cos-met-ic|

C1

🇺🇸

/proʊˌkɑzˈmɛtɪk/

🇬🇧

/prəʊˌkɒzˈmɛtɪk/

for or in favor of cosmetics

Etymology
Etymology Information

'pro-cosmetic' originates from Latin and Greek: the prefix 'pro' comes from Latin 'pro' where 'pro' meant 'for', and 'cosmetic' derives from Greek 'kosmetikós' where 'kosmein' meant 'to arrange, adorn'.

Historical Evolution

'cosmetic' changed from Greek 'kosmetikós' into Late Latin/Medieval Latin forms (e.g. 'cosmeticus'), passed into Middle French and Middle English as 'cosmetic', and the modern compound 'pro-cosmetic' is formed by adding the Latin prefix 'pro-' to the established English adjective.

Meaning Changes

Initially, the Greek root referred to skill in arranging or adorning; over time this developed into the notion of products or procedures for altering appearance, and 'pro-cosmetic' now means 'for or relating to cosmetics' or 'supportive of cosmetics'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person or group that supports the use or promotion of cosmetics.

As a pro-cosmetic, she often speaks at industry events about the benefits of cosmetics.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

supporting or in favor of cosmetics, cosmetic products, or cosmetic procedures.

The company's marketing is pro-cosmetic, highlighting the benefits of using their skincare line.

Synonyms

supportive of cosmeticspro-beautycosmetics-friendly

Antonyms

anti-cosmeticopposed to cosmeticscosmetic-averse

Adjective 2

intended for cosmetic purposes (designed or used to improve appearance rather than function).

They performed a pro-cosmetic alteration to the product's finish to make it more attractive to customers.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/10/23 08:37