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)
Examples of cuticle in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Rice bran extract, a lightweight emollient, smooths the hair cuticle, while hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant to lock in moisture.
—
Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Mar. 2025
These ingredients will temporarily seal the cuticle, creating a smoother, shinier finish.
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 19 Mar. 2025
Its sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free formula ensures a gentle cleanse that won't clog the hair's cuticle or prevent moisture from entering.
—Daisy Maldonado, Allure, 18 Feb. 2025
At the same time the creamy formula helps strengthen the hair cuticle and boost shine.
—Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 4 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
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Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Mar. 2025
These ingredients will temporarily seal the cuticle, creating a smoother, shinier finish.
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 19 Mar. 2025
Its sulfate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free formula ensures a gentle cleanse that won't clog the hair's cuticle or prevent moisture from entering.
—Daisy Maldonado, Allure, 18 Feb. 2025
At the same time the creamy formula helps strengthen the hair cuticle and boost shine.
—Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 4 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
Cite this Entry
“Cuticle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cuticle. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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)
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