cuticle

noun

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cu·ti·cle | \ ˈkyü-ti-kəl

Definition of cuticle

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)

Other Words from cuticle Example Sentences Learn More About cuticle

Examples of cuticle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Any styling product that promises heat protection (from blow dryers and summer temps and humidity alike) is essentially closing off that cuticle and preventing dehydration, frizzing, breaking and such. — Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 7 Apr. 2022 Prep your hair with a nourishing but lightweight serum, such as the headmistress cuticle sealer from evo. — Janae Mckenzie, Glamour, 2 Apr. 2022 Once the dip loosens and begins to flake, take the metal pusher or orangewood stick and lightly scrape off the polish, starting from the cuticle area to the end of your nail. — Elizabeth Denton, Allure, 31 Mar. 2022 Thickening or volumizing shampoos frequently include glycerin, which helps the hair retain water and lifts its cuticle, resulting in fuller, more manageable locks. — Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 7 Apr. 2022 Before getting to work with your tools use this formula to help detangle hair and seal the cuticle to prevent breakage and knots from styling. — Tatjana Freund, ELLE, 23 Feb. 2022 These are high in vitamins A, E, biotin, and folate, which can help strengthen the external cortex and the cuticle of the hair. — Nicole Pajer, SELF, 14 Oct. 2021 This particular nail-art look uses an OPI blue to polish almost the entire nail, leaving a crescent moon at the cuticle bare, then adding an accent dot. — Megan Decker, refinery29.com, 27 Feb. 2022 Ward said the metal tools were part of a nail and cuticle set, and the lighter was for their grill. — John Archibald | Jarchibald@al.com, al, 20 Feb. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'cuticle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.