cuticle
US /ˈkjuː.t̬ɪ.kəl/
UK /ˈkjuː.t̬ɪ.kəl/
1.
the layer of dead skin at the base of a fingernail or toenail
:
•
She pushed back her cuticles during her manicure.
•
Dry cuticles can be a sign of dehydration.
2.
the outer protective layer of an organism or part of an organism
:
•
The plant's waxy cuticle helps prevent water loss.
•
Insects have a hard outer cuticle for protection.