Cuticle - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A cuticle is the thin, protective layer of skin at the base of fingernails and toenails. It helps shield new nail growth from damage and infection.
Definition:
The outer layer of skin or protective covering, especially on a plant or insect.
Synonyms:
epidermis, integument, outer layer
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
core, interior
Common Collocations:
nail cuticle, plant cuticle, insect cuticle
Derivatives:
cuticular, cuticula
Usage Tips:
Use "cuticle" to describe thin protective layers in biology or beauty contexts, like nails or leaves.
Common Phrases:
cuticle oil, cuticle care, damaged cuticle
Etymology:
From Latin "cuticula," diminutive of "cutis," meaning "skin."
Examples:
- 1. The cuticle protects the nail from infections.
- 2. She applied oil to soften her dry cuticles.
- 3. Insects have a waxy cuticle to prevent water loss.
- 4. The plant's cuticle helps retain moisture in dry climates.