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 people damage their nails by picking at their cuticles, for example, or drying them out by overexposing them to water. —Andee Tagle, NPR, 21 Feb. 2026

Why Apples Have a Wax Coating Beyond adding shine, wax replaces the apple's natural protective cuticle, which is removed during commercial washing. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 21 Feb. 2026

Shop the $5 formula and scroll on to see more cuticle exfoliating options. —Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 21 Feb. 2026

The smoothing system, a blend of ingredients, softens and moisturizes the hair’s cuticle to deeply condition, while the amino acid blend helps prevent breakage and keeps the scalp moisturized. —Jamie Wilson, Glamour, 20 Feb. 2026

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