cosmetic

Cosmetic, a preparation applied externally for the purpose of preserving the bloom and beauty of youth; or for restoring those attractions when lost, or in the process of decay. Among the articles most used are lead, mercury, bismuth, antimony, and arsenic.

Entry from Everybody's Cyclopedia, 1912.

Cos*met"ic (k?z-m?t"?k), Cos*met"ic*al (-?-kal), a. [Gr. kosmitiko`s skilled in decorating, fr. ko`smos order, ornament: cf. F. cosm'etique. See Cosmos.]

Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the complexion; as, a cosmetical preparation.

First, robed in white, the nymph intent adores, With head uncovered, the cosmetic powers. Pope.

© Webster 1913.

Cos*met"ic, n.

Any external application intended to beautify and improve the complexion.

© Webster 1913.