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
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
Through his Zoom screen, Terrell showed more interest in his water bottle and his cuticles than in the discussion.
—Alondra Nelson, Time, 13 May 2025
Keep your cuticles hydrated and make your mani last by applying a cuticle oil.
—Alejandra Rodríguez, Glamour, 1 May 2025
Hair loss is self-explanatory and dryness is caused by damage to the outer layer of the cuticle and results in moisture loss and coarse, dull hair.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Amanda Mitchell, Allure, 16 May 2025
Through his Zoom screen, Terrell showed more interest in his water bottle and his cuticles than in the discussion.
—Alondra Nelson, Time, 13 May 2025
Keep your cuticles hydrated and make your mani last by applying a cuticle oil.
—Alejandra Rodríguez, Glamour, 1 May 2025
Hair loss is self-explanatory and dryness is caused by damage to the outer layer of the cuticle and results in moisture loss and coarse, dull hair.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 25 Mar. 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 28 May. 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)
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share