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
For that reason, all eight products in the line—which range from $32 to $42 and include a mask, leave-in treatment, and the aforementioned curl cream—take a three-pronged approach to hair care by targeting the scalp, inner cortex, and cuticle.
—
Dianna Singh, Allure, 10 June 2025
Post shampoo and conditioner, use a moisturizing leave-in styling formula like a cream or serum to seal cuticles and smooth hair.
—Holly Carter, People.com, 9 June 2025
It is equipped with a powerful AC motor that reduces dry time and an ion generator that smooths the cuticle to enhance natural curls.
—Náosha Gregg, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Nail clippers, metal files, cuticle pushers, and other tools are all dishwasher-safe.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for cuticle
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Dianna Singh, Allure, 10 June 2025
Post shampoo and conditioner, use a moisturizing leave-in styling formula like a cream or serum to seal cuticles and smooth hair.
—Holly Carter, People.com, 9 June 2025
It is equipped with a powerful AC motor that reduces dry time and an ion generator that smooths the cuticle to enhance natural curls.
—Náosha Gregg, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
Nail clippers, metal files, cuticle pushers, and other tools are all dishwasher-safe.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 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 19 Jun. 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)
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