unkeratinized
|un-ker-a-tin-ized|
/ʌnˈkɛrətɪnaɪzd/
(keratinize)
hardened layer
Etymology
'unkeratinized' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'keratinize', which comes from 'keratin', a protein found in the skin, hair, and nails.
'keratinize' changed from the French word 'kératine' and eventually became the modern English word 'keratinize'.
Initially, it meant 'to become keratinized', but with the prefix 'un-', it evolved into its current meaning of 'not keratinized'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not having undergone the process of keratinization, where cells become filled with keratin protein and die, forming a tough, resistant layer.
The unkeratinized epithelium is more susceptible to damage.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/02 17:52