cuticle

noun

cu·​ti·​cle ˈkyü-ti-kəl 

1

: an outer covering layer: such as

a

: an external envelope (as of an insect) secreted usually by epidermal cells

b

: the outermost layer of animal integument composed of epidermis

c

: a thin continuous fatty or waxy film on the external surface of many higher plants that consists chiefly of cutin

d

: the outermost membranous layer of a hair consisting of overlapping scales of epithelial cells

2

: dead or horny epidermis (such as that surrounding the base and sides of a fingernail)

cuticular

kyu̇-ˈti-kyə-lər 

adjective

Examples of cuticle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Your first step to minimize cuticle dryness is, according to both Dr. Gordon and Dr. Conroy, to stop cutting and pushing your cuticles. —Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 6 Dec. 2024

The nails in this set can be trimmed and filed and come in various sizes with nail glue, file, cuticle stick and alcohol pad. —Hyphensocial Contributors, Rolling Stone, 4 Dec. 2024

Great at restoring the skin, strengthening the nails and polishing the cuticles. —Samantha Mims, Essence, 2 Dec. 2024

Cavalcante elaborates, explaining that while regular conditioners primarily smooth the hair’s outer layer (the cuticle) for daily hydration and detangling, deep conditioners go further, formulated with richer ingredients—like oils, proteins, and butters—to nourish and strengthen from within. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin cuticula, diminutive of cutis skin — more at hide

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

cuticle

noun

cu·​ti·​cle ˈkyüt-i-kəl 

1

: an outer layer (as of skin or a leaf) often produced by the cells beneath

2

: a dead or horny layer of skin especially around a fingernail

Medical Definition

cuticle

noun

cu·​ti·​cle ˈkyüt-i-kəl 

1

: an outer covering layer: as

a

: the outermost layer of integument composed of epidermis

b

: the outermost membranous layer of a hair consisting of cornified epithelial cells

2

: dead or horny epidermis (as that surrounding the base and sides of a fingernail or toenail)

cuticular

kyu̇-ˈtik-yə-lər 

adjective