n. [ F. céruse, L. cerussa. ] 1. White lead, used as a pigment. See White lead, under White. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A cosmetic containing white lead. [ 1913 Webster ]

To distinguish ceruse from natural bloom. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Min.) The native carbonate of lead. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Washed with a preparation of white lead; as, cerused face. Beau. & Fl. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Perused p. pr. & vb. n. Perusing. ] [ Pref. per- + use. ] 1. To observe; to examine with care. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Myself I then perused, and limb by limb
Surveyed. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To read through; to read carefully. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One who peruses. [ 1913 Webster ]