hypodermis

[ hahy-puh-dur-mis ]

noun

1. Zoology. an underlayer of epithelial cells in arthropods and certain other invertebrates that secretes substances for the overlying cuticle or exoskeleton.
2. Botany. a tissue or layer of cells beneath the epidermis.

hypodermis

/ ˌhaɪpəˈdɜːmɪs /

noun

1. botany a layer of thick-walled supportive or water-storing cells beneath the epidermis in some plants
2. zoology the epidermis of arthropods, annelids, etc, which secretes and is covered by a cuticle

Other Words From

• hypo·dermal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypodermis¹

First recorded in 1865–70; hypo- + -dermis

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypodermis¹

C19: from hypo- + epidermis

Example Sentences

The hypodermis of this region is of two distinct types of cells.

From Project Gutenberg

Note on a new organ, and on the structure of the hypodermis, in Periplaneta orientalis.

From Project Gutenberg

The cells of the hypodermis multiply greatly, and lie one above the other in numerous layers.

From Project Gutenberg

The hypodermis of the larva passes directly into that of the imago.

From Project Gutenberg

The hypodermis is composed of parts of two different kinds, viz.

From Project Gutenberg