moisturize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal / Consumer / Beauty
Quick answer
What does “moisturize” mean?
To add moisture to something.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To add moisture to something; to make or keep something moist or slightly wet.
Specifically and most commonly, to apply a cream or lotion to the skin or hair to prevent dryness and maintain hydration.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
British English predominantly uses the spelling 'moisturise'. American English uses 'moisturize'. The verb 'moisturize' is used in both varieties, but the derived noun is more commonly 'moisturiser' (BrE) vs. 'moisturizer' (AmE).
Connotations
In both varieties, the word is strongly associated with commercial beauty and personal care products. The word itself has neutral-to-positive connotations but has become a subject of 'word aversion' for some English speakers who dislike the sound of 'moist'.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties within its specific domain (skincare). More likely to be encountered in advertising, product labels, and lifestyle media.
Grammar
How to Use “moisturize” in a Sentence
[Subject] moisturizes [Object] (with [Instrument])[Object] is moisturized (by [Subject])Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “moisturize” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- You should moisturise your skin after showering.
- This cream moisturises without feeling greasy.
American English
- Don't forget to moisturize your hands in this cold weather.
- The new formula moisturizes for up to 24 hours.
adjective
British English
- She bought a new moisturising body wash.
- Look for a good moisturising cream.
American English
- This is a highly moisturizing lip balm.
- The moisturizing properties of aloe vera are well-known.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing, product development, and sales within the cosmetics and personal care industry.
Academic
Rare; might appear in dermatology, cosmetic science, or material science papers.
Everyday
Common in conversations about personal care routines, health, and beauty recommendations.
Technical
Used in cosmetic chemistry and dermatology to describe the action of humectants and occlusives on the stratum corneum.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “moisturize”
- Incorrect spelling: 'moisterize', 'moisturise' (AmE context).
- Overextension: Using 'moisturize' for plants or general hydration (use 'water' or 'hydrate').
- Grammatical: Using as a noun ('I applied a moisturize' – should be 'moisturizer/moisturiser').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In skincare, they are often used interchangeably, but technically 'hydrate' means to add water, while 'moisturize' means to prevent water loss, often by creating a barrier. In general use, 'hydrate' is broader (e.g., hydrate your body by drinking water).
It is possible but unusual and can sound like a marketing term (e.g., 'moisturizing shampoo' for hair). For inanimate objects like soil or air, 'moisten' or 'humidify' are more standard.
No, it is a mid-register word common in everyday and commercial language. In formal scientific writing, terms like 'hydrate,' 'emollient effect,' or 'occlusive application' might be preferred.
This is part of a broader phenomenon called 'word aversion,' often linked to the root word 'moist.' Some find the sound or connotations unpleasant, though the word remains standard in the beauty industry.
To add moisture to something.
Moisturize: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɔɪs.tʃər.aɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɔɪs.tʃə.raɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MOIST' is in the word. To MOISTurize is to ADD MOISTure.
Conceptual Metaphor
SKIN IS A SPONGE (that needs to be kept filled with moisture).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'moisturize' correctly in an American English context?