cosmetic
cosmetic
(kɒzmetɪk )Word forms: plural cosmetics
1. countable noun [usually plural]
Cosmetics are substances such as lipstick or powder, which people put on their face to make themselves look more attractive.
2. adjective
If you describe measures or changes as cosmetic, you mean they improve the appearance of a situation or thing but do not change its basic nature, and you are usually implying that they are inadequate.
[disapproval]It is a cosmetic measure which will do nothing to help the situation long term.
In general, the students view these changes as merely cosmetic.
