sebum

[ see-buhm ]

noun

, Physiology.

1. the fatty secretion of the sebaceous glands.

sebum

/ ˈsiːbəm /

noun

1. the oily secretion of the sebaceous glands that acts as a lubricant for the hair and skin and provides some protection against bacteria

sebum

/ sē′bəm /

1. The fatty substance secreted by the sebaceous glands of mammals that protects and lubricates the skin and hair.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sebum¹

First recorded in 1700–10, sebum is from the Latin word sēbum tallow, grease

Word History and Origins

Origin of sebum¹

C19: from New Latin, from Latin: tallow

Example Sentences

Generally, your skin does a good job shedding sebum and dead cells.

From Popular-Science