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cosmetic

cos·met·ic [ koz méttik ]


noun  (plural cos·met·ics)
Definition:
 
1. beautifying substance: a preparation that is applied to the face or the body to make it more attractive, e.g. lipstick ( often used in the plural )

2. superficially attractive aspect: something added or done to something else to cover up defects



adjective 
Definition:
 
1. intended to beautify: intended to improve somebody's physical appearance
cosmetic surgery

2. done only for appearances: done to make something seem better but having no real value
The changes to the code of conduct were purely cosmetic, since attitudes remained fundamentally the same.

3. decorative: designed or added for decorative purposes rather than to have any real function

[Early 17th century. Via French cosmétique< Greek kosmētikos "skilled in ornamenting" < kosmein "arrange" < kosmos "order"]

cos·met·i·cal·ly adverb
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