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

Formulated with restorative sensations, the oil delivers a light liquid to dry, chipped, and cracked cuticles. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 31 Aug. 2023

Cuticle Buddy, a genius little nail and skin oil, strengthens nails and cuticles, stimulates growth, and prevents breakage and hangnails. —Hillary Maglin, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2023

Egg cuticles offer limited protection Eggs are governed by state and federal standards for operations. —Becky Krystal, Washington Post, 11 Aug. 2023

The best part is the frizz calming complex, which seals the cuticle and ensures lasting hydration to maintain your moisture balance. —Sophie Dodd, Peoplemag, 22 July 2023

Reviewers recommend a gel base coat to start off with and then a clear topcoat to really seal them in—all while avoiding the cuticle, of course. —Nykia Spradley, Glamour, 7 Sep. 2023

Factors like hair dye, heat, and chemicals can all wreak havoc on the cuticle and underlying hair shaft, as well as the bonds that help keep hair resilient, says Dr. Finney. —Kaleigh Fasanella, Women's Health, 31 Aug. 2023

Massage a barrier cream or cuticle oil into the cuticles and soak the nails in acetone. —Iman Balagam, ELLE, 22 Aug. 2023

Washing does not happen in some parts of the world - and numerous commenters on our chat argued that this leaves the cuticle on the surface of the shell intact so that the eggs can be stored at room temperature. —Becky Krystal, Anchorage Daily News, 16 Aug. 2023

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Word History

Etymology

Latin cuticula, diminutive of cutis skin — more at hide

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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