epidermis
noun
epi·der·mis ˌe-pə-ˈdər-məs 
1
a
: the outer epithelial layer of the external integument of the animal body that is derived from the embryonic epiblast
specifically : the outer nonsensitive and nonvascular layer of the skin of a vertebrate that overlies the dermis
b
: any of various animal integuments
2
: a thin surface layer of tissue in higher plants formed by growth of a primary meristem
Did you know?
Epidermis includes the Greek prefix epi-, meaning "outer;" thus, the epidermis overlies the dermis, or inner layer of skin. The epidermis itself consists of four or five layers; the outermost layer is made of dead cells, which are being shed continuously. The epidermis acts as a physical barrier—a protective wrap over the body's surface, which, by preventing water loss, allows vertebrates to live on land.
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web The surface layer of the skin – the epidermis – becomes thicker by adding more layers of cells. 
Nina G. Jablonski, The Conversation, 6 Sep. 2022 In an average facial, which can start with a Skin Instant diagnostic test that uses technology to assess the epidermis, a therapist might apply 10 products—all customized to what the skin needs in that moment. Molly Creeden, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2022 The dermis is the second layer of the skin, below the epidermis, which is the visible layer of skin. Dr. Jade Cobern, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2022 Like the real thing, the cream consists of water, lipids and proteins to combat dryness and regenerate the epidermis. Jamie Rosen, Robb Report, 31 July 2022 Signature Laser facial goes deep, focusing on the second layer of the skin — the epidermis — to confront acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2022 The blue LEDs in SolaWave's spot treatment device have a wavelength of 415 nanometers, which is long enough to enter the epidermis, or the outermost and thinnest layer of your skin. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 28 June 2022 The liver, intestines, kidneys and sweat glands in the epidermis remove toxins. Dezimey Kum, USA TODAY, 14 June 2022 This coating served as a foundation for the molding and application of a second coat, an ‘epidermis,’ made up of the same human skin cells that comprise some 90 percent of our own skin’s outer layer. Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 June 2022 See More
Nina G. Jablonski, The Conversation, 6 Sep. 2022 In an average facial, which can start with a Skin Instant diagnostic test that uses technology to assess the epidermis, a therapist might apply 10 products—all customized to what the skin needs in that moment. Molly Creeden, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2022 The dermis is the second layer of the skin, below the epidermis, which is the visible layer of skin. Dr. Jade Cobern, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2022 Like the real thing, the cream consists of water, lipids and proteins to combat dryness and regenerate the epidermis. Jamie Rosen, Robb Report, 31 July 2022 Signature Laser facial goes deep, focusing on the second layer of the skin — the epidermis — to confront acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2022 The blue LEDs in SolaWave's spot treatment device have a wavelength of 415 nanometers, which is long enough to enter the epidermis, or the outermost and thinnest layer of your skin. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 28 June 2022 The liver, intestines, kidneys and sweat glands in the epidermis remove toxins. Dezimey Kum, USA TODAY, 14 June 2022 This coating served as a foundation for the molding and application of a second coat, an ‘epidermis,’ made up of the same human skin cells that comprise some 90 percent of our own skin’s outer layer. Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 June 2022 See More Word History
Etymology
Late Latin, from Greek, from epi- + derma skin — more at derm-
First Known Use
1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Kids Definition
epidermis
noun
epi·der·mis ˌe-pə-ˈdər-məs
1
: a thin outer layer of skin covering the dermis
2
: any of various thin outer layers of plants or animals
Medical Definition
epidermis
noun
epi·der·mis -ˈdər-məs
1
: the outer epithelial layer of the external integument of the animal body that is derived from the embryonic epiblast
specifically : the outer nonsensitive and nonvascular layer of the skin of a vertebrate that overlies the dermis
2
: any of various animal integuments