Epicuticle
- Pronunciation
- /eh-PIH-kyoo-ti-kle/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Epicuticle
- Plural
- Epicuticles
Definition
The outermost layer of the cuticle, a protective outer covering found on insects and arachnids.
Etymology
From Greek 'epi-', meaning 'upon', and Latin 'cuticula', meaning 'a little skin'
Example
The epicuticle of an insect's cuticle provides protection against abrasion, water loss, and other environmental stressors.