Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Cosmetic \Cos*met"ic\ (k?z-m?t"?k), Cosmetical \Cos*met"ic*al\
   (-?-kal), a. [Gr. kosmitiko`s skilled in decorating, fr.
   ko`smos order, ornament: cf. F. cosm['e]tique. See {Cosmos}.]
   Imparting or improving beauty, particularly the beauty of the
   complexion; as, a cosmetical preparation.

         First, robed in white, the nymph intent adores, With
         head uncovered, the cosmetic powers.     --Pope.

Cosmetic \Cos*met"ic\, n.
   Any external application intended to beautify and improve the
   complexion.

Source : WordNet®

cosmetic
     n : a toiletry designed to beautify the body [syn: {cosmetics}]

cosmetic
     adj 1: serving an esthetic rather than a useful purpose; "cosmetic
            fenders on cars"; "the buildings were utilitarian
            rather than decorative" [syn: {decorative}, {ornamental}]
     2: serving an aesthetic purpose in beautifying the body;
        "cosmetic surgery"; "enhansive makeup" [syn: {enhancive}]