sun cream: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1neutral, everyday
Quick answer
What does “sun cream” mean?
A topical lotion or cream applied to the skin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A topical lotion or cream applied to the skin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
A product, typically containing UV filters, designed to prevent sunburn, skin damage, and reduce the risk of skin cancer; also used generically to refer to sunscreen products.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'sun cream' is the predominant term. In American English, 'sunscreen' is far more common, with 'sunblock' also being frequent; 'sun cream' is understood but sounds distinctly British.
Connotations
UK: Standard, neutral term. US: Can sound slightly formal or old-fashioned, or explicitly British.
Frequency
Very high frequency in UK English, especially in summer contexts. Lower frequency in US English, where 'sunscreen' dominates.
Grammar
How to Use “sun cream” in a Sentence
apply [sun cream] to [skin/face/body][subject] needs/uses/wears sun creamsun cream with [SPF/protection]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sun cream” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I always sun cream the kids before they go out to play.
- She carefully sun creamed her shoulders.
American English
- (Rarely verbed; Americans would say 'apply sunscreen').
adjective
British English
- sun-cream bottle
- sun-cream smell
American English
- sunscreen bottle
- sunscreen smell
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In the cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industry, referring to product lines, marketing, and R&D.
Academic
In dermatology and public health studies on skin cancer prevention.
Everyday
Discussions about holidays, beach trips, gardening, or outdoor sports.
Technical
Specifying SPF ratings, UVA/UVB protection, and chemical vs. physical filters.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sun cream”
- Using 'sun cream' in American contexts where 'sunscreen' is expected.
- Saying 'sun cream' for a spray format (more naturally 'sunscreen spray').
- Misspelling as 'suncreen'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In meaning, very little. 'Sun cream' is the preferred British term, often implying a cream or lotion consistency. 'Sunscreen' is the standard American term and can refer to any formulation (cream, spray, gel).
In informal British English, it can be used as a verb (e.g., 'I'll sun cream the baby'), though 'put on sun cream' or 'apply sun cream' are more common. This usage is rare in American English.
No. Modern sun creams are designed primarily to protect against skin damage from UV radiation, which includes preventing sunburn, premature ageing, and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Look for a high SPF (30+), broad-spectrum protection (against UVA & UVB), and water resistance if swimming. The best sun cream is one you will apply generously and reapply regularly.
A topical lotion or cream applied to the skin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
Sun cream is usually neutral, everyday in register.
Sun cream: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌn kriːm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌn kriːm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[as common as] sun cream in summer”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SUN CREAM: SUN (needs) CREAM (to not scream from burning).
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTION IS A SHIELD (applying a protective layer).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is most commonly used in American English for a lotion that protects from the sun?