Cuticle (noun)

1. The thin layer of dead skin that covers the top surface of a fingernail or toenail.
2. The layer of epidermis that surrounds the base of a hair on the skin.
3. The protective layer of cells surrounding the base of a feather.

Origin:

From latin cuticula, from cutis ("ski.n")

Examples:

1. She trimmed her cuticles before applying nail polish.
2. He examined the cuticles of the leaves under the microscope.
3. The cuticle of the hair protects the hair shaft from damage.
4. Cuticle oils are used to moisturize and nourish the cuticles.
5. The cuticle of a feather is important for the feather's strength and flexibility.