derm

A doctor examines the patient's derm with a magnifying glass.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Skin, especially the dermis: "derm" is a shortened form of "dermis," referring to the inner layer of the skin in anatomy. It is used less commonly as a standalone term, primarily in medical or scientific contexts.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The derm consists of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerve endings. (The dermis layer of the skin.)
  • In dermatology, doctors study the derm to diagnose skin conditions. (The skin layer examined by medical professionals.)

Advanced Usage

• "Derm" as a combining form: In medical terminology, "derm" frequently appears as a prefix or suffix (e.g., "dermatitis," "epidermis") to indicate something related to the skin.
  • The term 'hypodermic' refers to something beneath the derm. (Below the skin layer.)

Variants and Related Words

• Dermis (n): the thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis that forms the true skin, containing blood capillaries, nerve endings, and sweat glands.

  • The dermis provides structural support to the skin. (The inner skin layer.)

• Dermal (adj): relating to the skin or dermis.

  • A dermal patch delivers medication through the skin. (Pertaining to the skin.)

• Dermatology (n): the branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases.

  • She consulted a dermatology specialist for her rash. (Skin medicine field.)

Synonyms

• Skin: the outer covering of the body.
• Integument: a natural covering, such as skin, a shell, or a rind (more technical).

Related Idioms

• Thick-skinned: not easily offended or sensitive (metaphorical use of skin).
  • He is thick-skinned and can handle criticism. (Not easily hurt by remarks.)