1. the outermost layer of skin in vertebrates, consisting of living cells that are constantly shed and replaced
Usage: anatomy; commonly used in medical and biological contexts
2. the outermost layer of cells in plants, covering the leaves, stems, and roots
Usage: botany

Examples

• The epidermis is the protective barrier that shields your body from the environment.
• Sunburn damages the cells in the epidermis, causing redness and peeling.
• The epidermis of a leaf contains tiny pores called stomata that allow gas exchange.
• New skin cells are produced in the lower layers of the epidermis and gradually move upward.
• The epidermis is thinner on your eyelids than on the soles of your feet.
• Plant epidermis cells are often covered with a waxy coating called the cuticle.