Skin

/skɪn/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The thin layer of tissue on the outside of the body.
The sun can cause damage to the skin if not properly protected.
The outer layer of a fruit or vegetable.
I prefer to eat apples with the skin on for added fiber.
A covering or outer layer.
The skin of the drum produced a rich, vibrant sound.
verb
To remove the skin from a fruit, vegetable, or animal.
Please skin the potatoes before boiling them.
To strip or remove the covering from something.
He skinned the old bookshelf to refinish the wood.

Etymology

Old Norse 'skinn', related to the act of shedding.

Common Phrases and Expressions

skin deep
Superficial; not deep or profound.
to skin someone alive
To scold or chastise someone severely.
to save one's skin
To avoid danger or harm.

Related Words

epidermis
The outer layer of skin.
dermatology
The branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases.
cutaneous
Of, on, or affecting the skin.

Slang Meanings

To get under someone's skin.
That song really gets under my skin.
Skin as a synonym for a person's appearance.
She has great skin; it looks so healthy!