sebum

American  

[see-buhm] / ˈsi bəm /

noun

Physiology.

1. the fatty secretion of the sebaceous glands.

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sebum British  

/ 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

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sebum Scientific  

/ sē′bəm /

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

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Etymology

Origin of sebum

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

Example Sentences

It also closely resembles sebum, the oily substance that coats our skin and protects it from drying out.

From Salon • Jan. 25, 2025

Skin properties such as sebum levels, moisture, and dryness all influence the composition of the microbiota.

From Science Daily • Nov. 20, 2024

The differences in scent between young children and teens probably stem from puberty-driven changes in sweat and sebum production, the researchers said.

From New York Times • Mar. 21, 2024

Our follicles are attached to sebaceous glands, which make oil called sebum to add moisture to the hair.

From National Geographic • Aug. 22, 2023

The mucous membranes may be affected, and the secretion of both sweat and sebum is diminished in proportion to the degree of the affection, and may be quite absent.

From Anomalies and Curiosities of Medicine by Pyle, Walter L. (Walter Lytle)