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cuticle
[ kyoo-ti-kuhl ]
noun
- the nonliving epidermis that surrounds the edges of the fingernail or toenail.
- the epidermis.
- a superficial integument, membrane, or the like.
- Also called cuticula. Zoology. the outer, noncellular layer of the arthropod integument, composed of a mixture of chitin and protein and commonly containing other hardening substances as well.
- Botany. a very thin hyaline film covering the surface of plants, derived from the outer surfaces of the epidermal cells.
cuticle
/ kjuːˈtɪkjʊlə; ˈkjuːtɪkəl /
noun
- dead skin, esp that round the base of a fingernail or toenail
- another name for epidermis
- any covering layer or membrane
- the protective layer, containing cutin, that covers the epidermis of higher plants
- the hard protective layer covering the epidermis of many invertebrates
cuticle
/ kyo̅o̅′tĭ-kəl /
- The noncellular, hardened or membranous protective covering of many invertebrates, such as the transparent membrane that covers annelids.
- A layer of wax and cutin that covers the outermost surfaces of a plant. The cuticle is secreted by the epidermis and helps prevent water loss and infection by parasites.
- The hard skin around the sides and base of a fingernail or toenail.
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Derived Forms
- cuticular, adjective
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Other Words From
- cu·tic·u·lar [kyoo-, tik, -y, uh, -ler], adjective
- subcu·ticu·lar adjective
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Word History and Origins
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Word History and Origins
Origin of cuticle1
C17: from Latin cutīcula diminutive of cutis skin
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Example Sentences
As the disease subsides, the cuticle comes off (desquamates) in patches.
From Project Gutenberg
We hold it morally impossible to attend a picnic and come home pure in heart and undefiled of cuticle.
From Project Gutenberg
Flesh: Rich, bright yellow, red immediately beneath the cuticle.
From Project Gutenberg
The cuticle is an obstacle to galvanic effects; they are always feebly manifested in parts covered by it.
From Project Gutenberg
He, at least, could have dropped an unconventional word, done something to pierce the cuticle.
From Project Gutenberg
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