Cutikin

/ˈkjuːtɪkɪn/ noun

Definition

A protein or waxy substance found in or related to the outermost layer of plant leaves and stems, similar to or derived from cutin.

Etymology

Derived from cutin with the diminutive or variant suffix -kin, suggesting a smaller or related version of cutin. The term developed in botany to describe protective substances in plant cuticles.

Kelly Says

Plants actually use cutin-like substances as a waterproof coating—imagine if your skin naturally produced a layer that repelled water like a raincoat, and you never had to take it off!

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