integument

in·teg·u·ment

noun \in-ˈte-gyə-mənt\

Definition of INTEGUMENT

: something that covers or encloses; especially : an enveloping layer (as a skin, membrane, or cuticle) of an organism or one of its parts

— in·teg·u·men·ta·ry \-ˈmen-t(ə-)rē\ adjective

Origin of INTEGUMENT

Latin integumentum, from integere to cover, from in- + tegere to cover — more at thatch

First Known Use: circa 1611

Other Zoology Terms

altruism

in·teg·u·ment

noun \in-ˈteg-yə-mənt\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of INTEGUMENT

: an enveloping layer (as a skin, membrane, or husk) of an organism or one of its parts

—in·teg·u·men·ta·ry \-ˈment-ə-rē, -ˈmen-trē\ (audio pronunciation) adjective

integument

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Covering of the body, which protects it from the outside world and from drying out. In humans and other mammals it consists of the skin (including outer epidermis and inner dermis) and its related structures, including hair, nails, and sebaceous and sweat glands.