exfoliate

verb

(ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ˌāt How to pronounce exfoliate (audio)
Definition of exfoliatenext
as in to shed
to cast (a natural bodily covering or appendage) aside a soap that promises to help me exfoliate all that dry, flaky skin I've apparently been carrying around

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of exfoliate Tilbury recommended her Glow Toner to rejuvenate your skin and the Super Radiance Resurfacing Facial to exfoliate. — ABC News, 24 Sep. 2026 Crepe myrtles are supposed to peel—in fact, gardeners prize the tree for its exfoliating bark. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 22 Sep. 2026 Its formula is rounded out with the gently exfoliating polyhydroxy acid, niacinamide to even out skin tone, and Laminaria extract for hydration. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 17 Sep. 2026 Bowe advised using a gentle cleanser so skin does not feel squeaky-clean afterward, swapping gritty scrubs for hydrating exfoliating serums and skipping fragrances and essential oils. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 17 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exfoliate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for exfoliate
shed
Verb
  • This investigation could shed light on the hypothetical collision between Earth and a Mars-sized planetary body called Theia, which is thought to have spilled matter around our planet that coalesced to forge the moon billions of years ago.
    — Robert Lea, Space.com, 6 Oct. 2026
  • LeBron James‘ signature Nike line has long come in heavier and bulkier than other basketball shoes while prioritizing stability, but his newest model is bringing a new focus on shedding weight.
    — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of shed

Browse Nearby Words

exes
exfoliate
exfoliated
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Cite this Entry

“Exfoliate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/exfoliate. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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