cosmetize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (specialized/formal)Formal/Literary (occasionally technical in cosmetic science)
Quick answer
What does “cosmetize” mean?
to apply cosmetics to.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
to apply cosmetics to; to make something superficially attractive, especially to conceal flaws.
To present (something, such as an image, document, or narrative) in a deceptively favourable or appealing way; to gloss over imperfections.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the word with equal rarity. No significant spelling or usage variation. The literal sense is more likely found in technical contexts related to cosmetics.
Connotations
The connotation of superficial/deceptive beautification is shared in both dialects.
Frequency
Extremely rare in everyday speech in both regions. Slightly more likely to be encountered in formal writing or literary/critical analysis.
Grammar
How to Use “cosmetize” in a Sentence
[Someone] cosmetizes [something].[Something] is cosmetized (by [someone]).to cosmetize [something] as [adjective]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cosmetize” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The report was heavily cosmetized to downplay the safety failures.
- She quickly cosmetized her appearance before the video call.
American English
- The company tried to cosmetize its environmental record ahead of the audit.
- You can't just cosmetize the data and expect us to approve it.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to manipulating financial or performance reports to appear more favourable.
Academic
Used in critical analysis to describe sanitizing history, data, or narratives.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used humorously or critically about makeup or home presentation.
Technical
In cosmetic science, refers to the act of applying cosmetic products.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cosmetize”
- Using 'cosmetize' neutrally for applying makeup. (Preferred: 'apply makeup').
- Confusing spelling: 'cosmeticize' is a less common variant.
- Using it as a high-frequency synonym for 'improve'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is quite rare. More common phrases are 'apply makeup', 'gloss over', or 'whitewash', depending on the intended meaning.
'Beautify' is generally positive and can imply genuine improvement. 'Cosmetize' is often negative, implying a superficial change meant to deceive or distract from underlying flaws.
Yes, it can literally mean to apply cosmetics, but this usage is technical and very uncommon. 'Apply makeup' is the standard phrasing.
The related nouns are 'cosmetization' (the process) and 'cosmetic' (the product used).
to apply cosmetics to.
Cosmetize is usually formal/literary (occasionally technical in cosmetic science) in register.
Cosmetize: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒzmɪtʌɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːzməˌtaɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to put lipstick on a pig (related concept of superficial improvement)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: COSMETics + ize (to make into). It's the verb form of 'cosmetics'—to make something look cosmetically perfect, often hiding the reality beneath.
Conceptual Metaphor
TRUTH/REALITY IS A FACE. To cosmetize is to apply the makeup of deception to the face of an ugly truth.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'cosmetize' most appropriately used?