Skin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉโ๐ฆฐ
skin
[skษชn ]
Definitions
human body
The thin layer of tissue forming the natural outer covering of the human body.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| skin |
General term for the outer layer of a human's or animal's body. Commonly used when talking about the appearance, texture, or health of this layer.
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| epidermis |
Scientific or medical term for the outermost layer of skin, above the dermis. Used in scientific, medical, or anatomical discussions about skin structures.
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| dermis |
Scientific or medical term describing the layer of skin beneath the epidermis. Usually used in anatomy, dermatology, or scientific contexts.
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| flesh |
Refers to the soft tissue of the body beneath the skin, including muscle and fat. Used in more descriptive or sometimes dramatic contexts, occasionally with a slight negative or gruesome connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The sunburn made her skin sensitive to touch.
- His skin was smooth and unblemished.
peel
To remove the skin from (a fruit or vegetable).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| skin |
Use when referring to removing the outer layer of an animal or even certain fruits and vegetables like a tomato or potato.
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| peel |
Commonly used when removing the outer layer of fruits and vegetables, typically those with a thin or easily removable skin.
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| pare |
Used when carefully trimming away the outer layer of something, usually with precision, often related to fruits or vegetables.
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| shuck |
Typically used when removing the outer covering of items like corn or shellfish.
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Examples of usage
- She skinned the potatoes before boiling them.
- He carefully skinned the apple with a knife.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- It is the largest organ in the human body, accounting for about 16% of total body weight.
- Skin has three main layers: the epidermis (outer), dermis (middle), and subcutaneous tissue (inner), each serving distinct functions.
Cultural Significance
- Throughout history, skin has been a canvas for cultural expression, with tattoos and body art reflecting identity and status.
- In many societies, skin color has played a significant role in social dynamics, impacting everything from beauty standards to discrimination.
Health & Psychology
- Skin conditions, like eczema or acne, can significantly affect an individualโs mental health and self-esteem.
- The sense of touch, facilitated by skin, is crucial for social bonding and emotional connection, proving that our skin helps us feel loved.
Pop Culture
- In films and music, skin is often a symbol of beauty and attraction, as seen in many beauty campaigns that highlight flawless skin.
- Artists like Sade and Michael Jackson have songs about skin that evoke themes of love and longing.
Origin of 'skin'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old Norse term 'skinn', which means the outer covering of an animal.
- In various languages, the concept of covering or protection is often linked to the word for skin, showing its essential role.
The word 'skin' originated from the Old Norse word 'skinn', which meant 'animal hide'. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the outer covering of humans as well. The concept of skin has been integral to human identity and protection throughout history, with various cultural and symbolic meanings attached to it.