cos ‧ met ‧ ic /kɒzˈmetɪk $ kɑːz-/ BrE AmE adjective
[ Date: 1600-1700 ; Language: Greek ; Origin: kosmetikos 'skilled in decoration' , from kosmein 'to arrange, decorate' , from kosmos ; ⇨ ↑ cosmos ]
1 . dealing with the outside appearance rather than the important part of something SYN superficial :
We’re making a few cosmetic changes to the house before we sell it.
Many MPs denounced the resolution as a cosmetic exercise (=something which will look good, but have no real effect) .
2 . intended to make your hair, skin, body etc look more attractive:
the cosmetic industry
cosmetic products
Are you on the diet for health or cosmetic reasons?