epidermis

noun

epi·​der·​mis ˌe-pə-ˈdər-məs 

1

a

: the outer epithelial layer of the external integument of the animal body that is derived from the embryonic epiblast

specifically : the outer nonsensitive and nonvascular layer of the skin of a vertebrate that overlies the dermis

b

: any of various animal integuments

2

: a thin surface layer of tissue in higher plants formed by growth of a primary meristem

Did you know?

Epidermis includes the Greek prefix epi-, meaning "outer;" thus, the epidermis overlies the dermis, or inner layer of skin. The epidermis itself consists of four or five layers; the outermost layer is made of dead cells, which are being shed continuously. The epidermis acts as a physical barrier—a protective wrap over the body's surface, which, by preventing water loss, allows vertebrates to live on land.

Examples of epidermis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The cells of the epidermis, or the outside layer of skin, constantly regenerate. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 6 Dec. 2024

Hundertwasser famously wrote that humans have three skins: the epidermis, their clothing, and their home. —Natalie Stoclet, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024

These fatty acids are essential to the body and act as a barrier for the epidermis by preventing water from escaping. —Mélanie Nauche, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2024

This combo treatment uses a light device to even tone, followed by a non-ablative laser (meaning, no epidermis is removed; the skin stays intact throughout). —Megan McIntyre, Allure, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek, from epi- + derma skin — more at derm-

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

epidermis

noun

epi·​der·​mis ˌep-ə-ˈdər-məs 

1

: the thin outer layer of the animal body that in vertebrates forms an insensitive covering over the dermis

2

: a thin surface layer of protecting cells in seed plants and ferns

Medical Definition

epidermis

noun

epi·​der·​mis -ˈdər-məs 

1

: the outer epithelial layer of the external integument of the animal body that is derived from the embryonic epiblast

specifically : the outer nonsensitive and nonvascular layer of the skin of a vertebrate that overlies the dermis

2

: any of various animal integuments