Botany/Zoology: A protective, waxy or hard outer layer secreted by the epidermis of a plant or forming the external covering of an invertebrate animal.

The insect's cuticle provides an effective barrier against desiccation.

The dead skin at the base of a fingernail or toenail.

She carefully pushed back her cuticles during her manicure.

Anatomy (Hair): The outermost layer of a hair shaft composed of overlapping scale-like cells.

Excessive heat styling can damage the hair cuticle, leading to split ends.