cellulite

[ sel-yuh-lahyt, -leet ]

noun

1. lumpy fat deposits, especially in the thighs and buttocks.

cellulite

/ ˈsɛljʊˌlaɪt /

noun

1. a name sometimes given to subcutaneous fat alleged to resist dieting

cellulite

1. A popular term for fat that is difficult to remove by dieting and that often has a dimpled appearance. There is no physiological difference between cellulite and ordinary fat.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cellulite¹

First recorded in 1970–75; from French: literally, “formation of fatty deposits under the skin,” originally, “cellulitis,” equivalent to cellule cell + -ite “-itis” (a suffix indicating inflammation) but taken in English as -ite ¹ (a suffix indicating part of the body); cellule, -itis, -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of cellulite¹

C20: from French, from cellule cell

Example Sentences

She was panicked that other teammates, spectators, coaches, officials, et. al might be able to see cellulite on her legs.

From Salon

Appropriate to a realm in which death and cellulite are not a thing, Barbie Land revels in the bright tones of immortality.

From Los Angeles Times

Contestants said finalists were unexpectedly asked to strip for "a body check for scars and cellulite" and some said they were photographed topless.

From BBC

Organisers had told the candidates that the body checks were meant "to examine any scars, cellulite or tattoos on their bodies", Ms Anggraeni told AFP.

From BBC

Without giving too much way, Barbie develops a touch of cellulite and begins to fear death, neither of which are supposed to exist in Barbieland, where everyone is forever young and perfect.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flesh