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

Many also double as anti-frizz stylers for all hair types, smoothing the cuticle to add shine and light hold. —Nykia Spradley, Glamour, 12 Dec. 2025

It is said that cutting hair during this period not only accelerates growth but also promotes a thicker cuticle, promising greater density and volume. —Nadia Cantú, AZCentral.com, 4 Dec. 2025

The actual services are performed using tools inside a Manicure Pod, including removal sponges, cuticle brushes, and, of course, their polish, which comes in 30 shades, all nontoxic and vegan, and lasts between seven and 10 days. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 2 Dec. 2025

Each set includes 42 nails of various sizes, an alcohol prep pad, a dual-sided nail file and buffer, cuticle pusher, and nail glue. —Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 29 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin cuticula, diminutive of cutis skin — more at hide

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cuticle

• hermeneutical
• pharmaceutical
• radiopharmaceutical

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