Definition: Epidermis

From New World Encyclopedia

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin epidermis, from Ancient Greek ἐπιδερμίς or epidermís, ἐπί or epí (on top of) + δέρμα or dérma (skin). Equivalent to epi- + dermis.

Noun

epidermis (plural epidermides or epidermises)

  1. The outer, protective layer of the skin of vertebrates, covering the dermis.
  2. The similar outer layer of cells in invertebrates and plants

Derived terms

  • epidermal
  • epidermic
  • epidermoid

Credits

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