cuticle

noun

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)

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Examples of cuticle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Remember this: Healthy cuticles equal healthy nails. — Emily Rekstis, Glamour, "10 Things You Can Do Now to Get Stronger, Healthier Nails ASAP," 20 Apr. 2019 However, Hadley suggests removing a gel manicure after two to three weeks maximum to avoid damaging nail beds and cuticles. — Tiffany Dodson, SELF, "4 Mistakes You’re Making When Wearing Gel Nail Polish," 25 Jan. 2019 If you’re pressed for time, hydrate bare nails with a hand cream or cuticle oil and hit with a four-sided buffer to achieve a smooth, even surface. — Sarah Ferguson, Marie Claire, "3 Spots You're Forgetting About When Getting Ready," 11 Dec. 2018 According to Virtue, adding Alpha Keratin 60ku Reactive to the dye fills the hair shaft with protein and seals the cuticle, leaving behind shiny, healthy hair. — Elizabeth Denton, Allure, "Virtue's New Protein Powder Made My Damaged, Color-Treated Hair Look Like New," 19 Mar. 2019 Cutting: Gently pushing back cuticles to make your nails look longer and neater = good. — Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, "The Truth About Germs Hiding in Pedicure Tubs Will Ruin Your Day," 14 Mar. 2018 Since cold weather tends to make skin drier overall, proper cuticle hydration can make a big difference. — Tiffany Dodson, SELF, "4 Mistakes You’re Making When Wearing Gel Nail Polish," 25 Jan. 2019 The quickest way to determine the best shape for you is to mimic the shape of your cuticles. — Blake Bakkila, Good Housekeeping, "The Easy Way to Figure Out Which Nail Shape Looks Best on You," 10 Jan. 2019 For all hair types, but especially those that are damaged, brittle, or bleached, maintaining the quality of the cuticle is key. — Jenna Rennert, Vogue, "The Best Blowdryers to Invest In, According to the Pros," 27 Nov. 2018

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.