cuticle: Meaning and Definition of

cu•ti•cle

1. the nonliving epidermis that surrounds the edges of the fingernail or toenail.
2. the epidermis.
3. a superficial integument, membrane, or the like.
4. Also calledthe outer, noncellular layer of the arthropod integument, composed of a mixture of chitin and protein and commonly containing other hardening substances as well.
5. a very thin hyaline film covering the surface of plants, derived from the outer surfaces of the epidermal cells.