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

Tweezerman Glass Manicure Set Target Tweezerman Glass Manicure Set (4-Piece) $28 Target This SELF Healthy Beauty Award–winning set, which comes with a file, buffer, cuticle pusher, and pair of clippers, is a major upgrade to most nail care kits. —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 23 Nov. 2024

Made with a vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free blend of coconut, jojoba, and grapeseed oils, use this post-mani to ensure your set looks bomb—or any time to keep your nails and cuticles healthy. —Kayla Greaves, Essence, 23 Nov. 2024

The shampoo is also powered by Smart Porosity Toning Technology, which fills in gaps in the hair cuticles for more even toning. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 20 Nov. 2024

Phoebe Nails specializes in Russian manicures, a technique that involves removing the cuticles around the nailbed. —Ryan Murphy, The Indianapolis Star, 29 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