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)
Examples of cuticle in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This happens because the cuticle is more open, allowing the water to enter the hair shaft faster.
—
Sherri Gordon, Health, 4 June 2025
But with a simple, clear mani like this, the nail and cuticle prep is key (the glassy polish won’t hide anything, so getting your fingers looking picture-perfect before will be a game-changer!).
—Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 3 June 2025
The ceramic plates are also infused with volcanic rock and minerals to help seal the cuticle without stripping moisture, leaving hair sleek, not scorched.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 21 May 2025
Frizz happens when the outermost cuticle layer of the hair shaft is out of alignment, creating a jagged look.
—Amanda Mitchell, Allure, 16 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
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Sherri Gordon, Health, 4 June 2025
But with a simple, clear mani like this, the nail and cuticle prep is key (the glassy polish won’t hide anything, so getting your fingers looking picture-perfect before will be a game-changer!).
—Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 3 June 2025
The ceramic plates are also infused with volcanic rock and minerals to help seal the cuticle without stripping moisture, leaving hair sleek, not scorched.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 21 May 2025
Frizz happens when the outermost cuticle layer of the hair shaft is out of alignment, creating a jagged look.
—Amanda Mitchell, Allure, 16 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
Cite this Entry
“Cuticle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cuticle. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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)
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