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cosmetology

American  
[koz-mi-tol-uh-jee] / ˌkɒz mɪˈtɒl ə dʒi /

noun

  1. the art or profession of applying cosmetics.


cosmetology British  
/ ˌkɒzmɛˈtɒlədʒɪ /

noun

  1. the work of beauty therapists, including hairdressing, facials, manicures, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of cosmetology

1850–55; < Greek kosmētó ( s ) adorned, arranged ( see cosmetic) + -logy, apparently modeled on French cosmétologie

Vocabulary lists containing cosmetology

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Now, she’s excited by cosmetology and intends to support herself one day as a hair stylist.

From Salon Apr. 29, 2026

Employees sent on house calls, like the 18-year-old beautician, were typically licensed by the state boards of cosmetology or massage therapy.

From The Wall Street Journal Dec. 31, 2025

She started at cosmetology school, but didn’t finish because the fumes from acrylic nails sent her to the hospital, she said.

From MarketWatch Dec. 19, 2025

He said he likes to focus on the "positive aspects" of life and is getting ready to go to college to study cosmetology.

From BBC Oct. 11, 2025

Her name was Shannon, and she studied at the cosmetology school across the street.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover

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