cutin

[ kyoo-tin ]

noun

1. a transparent, waxy substance constituting, together with cellulose, the cuticle of plants.

cutin

/ ˈkjuːtɪn /

noun

1. a waxy waterproof substance, consisting of derivatives of fatty acids, that is the main constituent of the plant cuticle

cutin

/ kyo̅o̅t′n /

1. A waxlike, water-repellent polyester consisting of fatty acids and aromatic compounds that occurs naturally in the walls of many plant cells. Cutin acts together with wax to form the cuticle, a barrier protecting the aboveground surfaces of plants from water loss and microbial attack.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cutin¹

1860–65; < Latin cut ( is ) skin, cutis + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of cutin¹

C19: from Latin cutis skin + -in

Example Sentences

The discoverers of PETase also suggested that it may have evolved from bacterial enzymes used to break down cutin, a waxy polymer that coats leaves.

From Economist

The structure of the enzyme looked very similar to one evolved by many bacteria to break down cutin, a natural polymer used as a protective coating by plants.

From The Guardian

The boomers’ Social Security benefits were actually cutin the Reagan years.

From Seattle Times

Due to the presence of cutin in the cell walls, epidermis is last to be digested.

From Project Gutenberg

Motor cells; 2. stomata; 3. sclerenchyma; 4. epidermis; 5. cutin layer.

From Project Gutenberg