keratinized
|ker-a-tin-ized|
/ˈkɛrətɪˌnaɪzd/
(keratinize)
hardened layer
Etymology
'keratinized' originates from the word 'keratin,' which comes from the Greek word 'keratos,' meaning 'horn.'
'keratos' transformed into the modern English word 'keratin,' and eventually became 'keratinized' to describe the process of becoming like keratin.
Initially, it referred to the process of becoming like horn, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of forming a tough, resistant layer.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having undergone the process of keratinization, where cells become filled with keratin protein, die, and form a tough, resistant layer.
The outer layer of the skin is keratinized to protect against environmental damage.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/21 19:41