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

But skin-care products and habits, like harsh chemical exfoliants and cleansing too often (yes, that’s a thing), can inadvertently harm the skin's moisture barrier, which is the outermost layer of the skin (also known as the epidermis) that guards against external stressors. —Sarah Han, Allure, 4 Mar. 2025

This causes this epidermis layer to separate from the dermis (middle layer of skin) and form a burn blister. —Laura Schober, Health, 27 Dec. 2024

The emulsion, on the other hand, nourishes the epidermis, sealing in moisture and reinforcing the skin’s barrier. —Marie Courtois, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025

The fats in the epidermis play another role: supporting the chemical layer of protection. —Matt Fuchs, TIME, 6 Feb. 2025

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

Rhymes for epidermis

• endodermis
• hypodermis
• dermis
• thermos
• vermis

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