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
Chances are, the roots of your frizziness stem from multiple factors, but in its most basic definition, frizz is when the outermost cuticle layer of the hair shaft is out of alignment, creating a jagged look.
—
Lauren Dana Ellman, Allure, 6 Aug. 2024
This can be risky after a pedicure if the cuticles have been recently cut or trimmed, experts say.
—Marlene Cimons, Washington Post, 28 July 2024
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Nail Deals
The first step to a flawless manicure is getting your cuticles in check for stronger, healthier nails.
—Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 16 July 2024
The outermost layer, the cuticle, contains cells that overlap each other like fish scales.
—India Espy-Jones, Essence, 23 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for cuticle 
Lauren Dana Ellman, Allure, 6 Aug. 2024
This can be risky after a pedicure if the cuticles have been recently cut or trimmed, experts say.
—Marlene Cimons, Washington Post, 28 July 2024
Infallible Matte Lip Crayon $10 $4 Amazon Nars Audacious Lipstick
$22 $20
Amazon
Nail Deals
The first step to a flawless manicure is getting your cuticles in check for stronger, healthier nails.
—Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 16 July 2024
The outermost layer, the cuticle, contains cells that overlap each other like fish scales.
—India Espy-Jones, Essence, 23 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for cuticle
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cuticle.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near cuticle
Cite this Entry
“Cuticle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cuticle. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.
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)
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