epidermis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical, Scientific
Quick answer
What does “epidermis” mean?
The outermost layer of cells covering an organism, especially the skin of a vertebrate.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The outermost layer of cells covering an organism, especially the skin of a vertebrate.
In botany, the outermost layer of cells covering a plant's leaves, young stems, and roots; more generally, any outer protective layer or surface.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general discourse, equally standard in scientific/medical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “epidermis” in a Sentence
The epidermis of [NOUN][ADJ] epidermisEpidermis that/which [CLAUSE]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “epidermis” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [No standard verb form. The related verb is 'epidermise' which is extremely rare.]
American English
- [No standard verb form.]
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverb form.]
American English
- [No standard adverb form.]
adjective
British English
- The epidermal cells were examined under the microscope.
- She suffered an epidermal burn.
American English
- The epidermal layer provides a crucial barrier.
- An epidermal growth factor was applied.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in biology, anatomy, botany, dermatology, and medical texts.
Everyday
Rare. Replaced by 'skin' or 'outer layer'.
Technical
The standard precise term for the specific anatomical/botanical structure.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “epidermis”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “epidermis”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “epidermis”
- Mispronouncing it as /ˈɛpɪdɜːmɪs/ (stress on first syllable). Correct stress is on the third syllable.
- Using it in casual conversation where 'skin' is appropriate, sounding overly technical.
- Confusing it with 'dermis' (the layer beneath).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Skin' is the entire organ, which includes the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The epidermis is specifically the outermost, epithelial layer.
Yes, it is the standard term for the outermost layer of cells covering a plant's leaves, stems, and roots.
Its primary function is protection. In animals, it acts as a barrier against pathogens, UV radiation, and water loss. In plants, it regulates gas exchange and water retention.
The adjective is 'epidermal' (e.g., epidermal cells, epidermal tissue).
The outermost layer of cells covering an organism, especially the skin of a vertebrate.
Epidermis is usually formal, technical, scientific in register.
Epidermis: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɛpɪˈdɜːmɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɛpɪˈdɜːrmɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms. The word is used literally.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'EPI-DERMIS': EPI means 'upon' (like in epicentre), and DERMIS means 'skin'. So it's the layer *upon the skin* (specifically, upon the dermis).
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SURFACE IS A PROTECTIVE SHIELD / THE OUTER LAYER IS A BARRIER.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'epidermis' LEAST likely to be used?