1. the dead skin at the base of a fingernail or toenail
2. the outer layer of skin
Usage: technical
3. a waxy protective layer covering the surface of leaves and stems
Usage: botany

Examples

• She pushed back her cuticles before applying nail polish.
• The manicurist carefully trimmed the excess cuticle.
• Dry cuticles can be softened with moisturizer.
• The plant’s waxy cuticle helps prevent water loss.
• Damage to the cuticle can lead to infection.
• He bit his cuticles when he was nervous.
• The thick cuticle protects desert plants from harsh conditions.