Epicuticles

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A protective layer found on the external surfaces of plants, assisting in moisture retention and defense against pathogens
2. A waxy or thin barrier on plant surfaces that prevents water loss and provides protection from environmental stressors
3. The outermost layer of a plant's leaf or stem that helps to reduce transpiration and guard against microbial invasion

Etymology: Latin used "cutis" for skin, and added a diminutive ending to make "cuticula," meaning "little skin." English borrowed that term for the thin protective layer on the surface of plants and animals. "Epicuticles" is the plural of "epicuticle," a compound that adds the Greek prefix "epi-," meaning "on" or "upon," to "cuticle." The result is a literal description: the thin layer sitting on top of the cuticle. In plants, that outer film is coated with waxes and other compounds that limit water loss and make it harder for microbes to get in.