epidermis

 
Pronunciation: /ˌɛpɪˈdəːmɪs/

noun

  • the outer layer of cells covering an organism, in particular:
  • Zoology & Anatomy the surface epithelium of the skin of an animal, overlying the dermis.
  • Botany the outer layer of tissue in a plant, except where it is replaced by periderm.

Derivatives

epidermal

adjective

epidermic

adjective

epidermoid

adjective

Origin:

early 17th century: via late Latin from Greek, from epi 'upon' + derma 'skin'