cold cream: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Product-specific
Quick answer
What does “cold cream” mean?
A thick, white cosmetic preparation used to cleanse, moisturise, and remove makeup from the face and skin.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A thick, white cosmetic preparation used to cleanse, moisturise, and remove makeup from the face and skin.
By extension, a type of heavy moisturising cream for dry or sensitive skin, often associated with a basic, traditional formula of oils, wax, and water.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic difference. The product is known by the same name. Minor spelling conventions may apply in marketing copy (e.g., 'moisturise' vs. 'moisturize').
Connotations
In both regions, it often carries connotations of traditional, simple, effective skincare, sometimes perceived as old-fashioned or 'classic'.
Frequency
Frequency is similar in both varieties; it's a well-established, product-specific term.
Grammar
How to Use “cold cream” in a Sentence
[Subject] applies/removes cold cream.[Subject] cleanses [Object] with cold cream.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cold cream” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- a cold-cream formulation
- cold-cream texture
American English
- a cold-cream formula
- cold-cream consistency
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the cosmetics, beauty, and retail industries.
Academic
Rare; might appear in historical, cultural, or cosmetic chemistry texts.
Everyday
Used in personal care and beauty routines.
Technical
Used in cosmetic science to describe a specific emulsion type (oil-in-water or water-in-oil).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cold cream”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cold cream”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cold cream”
- Using 'cold cream' to refer to any moisturiser (it's specifically for cleansing/makeup removal).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I cold-creamed my face' is non-standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. While it moisturises, its primary purpose is to cleanse and dissolve makeup. It is rinsed or tissued off, whereas a moisturiser is typically left on the skin.
The name originates from the cooling sensation it creates on the skin as the water in the emulsion evaporates during application.
It can for some skin types, particularly if it is not properly removed, as its rich, oily composition may clog pores. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should use it cautiously.
Traditional advice suggests tissueing it off. Modern advice often recommends a second cleanse with a mild face wash or toner to ensure no residue is left, which can be especially important for oily skin.
A thick, white cosmetic preparation used to cleanse, moisturise, and remove makeup from the face and skin.
Cold cream is usually formal/product-specific in register.
Cold cream: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkəʊld ˈkriːm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkoʊld ˈkriːm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: COLD (soothing, not heated) CREAM (a thick, white substance). It's a classic cream kept at room temperature for cleansing.
Conceptual Metaphor
CARE IS NOURISHMENT / CLEANLINESS IS PURITY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of traditional cold cream?