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
It’s formulated with babassu oil, which smooths the cuticle and locks in moisture, while murumuru butter softens dry curls and coils.
—
Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 7 July 2025
Then, take the wooden stick and peel the sticker from the cuticle toward the tips of your fingernails.
—Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 30 June 2025
Meanwhile, panthenol seals each strand’s cuticle, preventing frizz and split ends—which also just so happens to cut down drying time.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 May 2025
It’s infused with avocado oil, a rich source of vitamin E, which prevents hair loss, seals the hair cuticle, dials up your natural shine, and makes your tresses extra smooth.
—Jenn Barthole, Glamour, 28 May 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.
Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 7 July 2025
Then, take the wooden stick and peel the sticker from the cuticle toward the tips of your fingernails.
—Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 30 June 2025
Meanwhile, panthenol seals each strand’s cuticle, preventing frizz and split ends—which also just so happens to cut down drying time.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 May 2025
It’s infused with avocado oil, a rich source of vitamin E, which prevents hair loss, seals the hair cuticle, dials up your natural shine, and makes your tresses extra smooth.
—Jenn Barthole, Glamour, 28 May 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 6 Aug. 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