noun
epidermis
ep-ih-DUR-mis
Epidermis (noun) means the outer, protective layer of the skin of a vertebrate animal. Example: “Sunburn damages the epidermis first.”
noun
1
The outer, protective layer of the skin of a vertebrate animal.
"Sunburn damages the epidermis first."
"The epidermis is thinner on the eyelids than on the soles of the feet."
"A blister forms when fluid collects beneath the epidermis."
2
A similar outer layer of cells found in invertebrates and plants.
"The epidermis of a leaf helps to limit water loss."
"Under the microscope, you can peel away a thin strip of onion epidermis."
How to use epidermis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe outermost layer of skin, or the outer cell layer of a plant or invertebrate.
When to use it
Mostly used in biology, medicine and skincare writing.
Easily confused with
dermis
Common pairings
damage the epidermis
layers of the epidermis
plant epidermis
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Sunburn damages the _____ first.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin epidermis, which came from Ancient Greek epidermis. The Greek word joined epi, meaning on top of, to derma, meaning skin.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the epidermis?
It is the outer, protective layer of the skin of vertebrates. A similar outer layer of cells is found in invertebrates and plants.
What is the plural of epidermis?
The plural can be epidermides or epidermises.
What lies beneath the epidermis?
The dermis lies beneath it.
What is the meaning of epidermis?
"epidermis" (noun) means the outer, protective layer of the skin of a vertebrate animal.
