化粧

• Reading: けしょう
• Romaji: keshou
• Kanji breakdown: 化 (ka/ke) — change, transform; 粧 (shō) — adorn, make up
• Pronunciation: /ke.ɕoː/

Meaning

Make-up; cosmetics. The act of applying cosmetics to enhance or alter one's appearance.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (化粧する). Covers all forms of cosmetic application — from daily routines to theatrical make-up. Common compounds include 化粧品 (cosmetics/beauty products), 化粧室 (powder room/restroom, a polite euphemism), and 薄化粧 (light make-up). Can be used figuratively for surface decoration.

Examples

1. 毎朝化粧するのに三十分かかる。 It takes me thirty minutes to put on makeup every morning.
2. 化粧品を買いにデパートへ行った。 I went to the department store to buy cosmetics.
3. 彼女は薄化粧の方が似合うと思う。 I think she looks better with light makeup.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, beauty, fashion

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 化 (ke, to transform/change) and 粧 (shō, to adorn/dress). Together, 'transforming through adornment' — altering appearance through cosmetic application.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal