keratinized
Tough protein coating
Keratinized describes tissue that has become hardened with keratin, the tough protein found in hair, nails, horns, and the outer layer of skin.
Skin becomes keratinized as cells migrate to the surface and die, forming a protective barrier: The keratinized layer of the heel can grow quite thick.
Also spelled keratinised in British English.
Fibrous scalp covering
Outermost tissue layer
- proteinFolded amino chain
- epithelialSurface-lining tissue type
- cuticleDead skin at nail base
- fibrousMade of threads
Protective combat covering
- carapaceProtective dorsal exoskeleton
- shellHard outer covering
- exoskeletonExternal skeletal structure
- scuteHorny protective plate
plastron · plate · casque · bony · shield · covering · barrier · integument
Covered with thin plates
leathery · calloused · thickened · crusty · dry · peeling · scabrous · papery
Made more dense
- toughenedMade more durable
- calcifiedHardened by calcium deposits
- ossifiedTurned hard, inflexible
- induratedMade physically or emotionally tough
sclerotic · rigidified · stiffened · solidified · desiccated · laminated · crosslinked · densified
hair
Fibrous scalp covering
- nailsMetal fasteners, finger coverings
- feathersBird's lightweight covering
- scalesPlates or weighing devices
hooves · claws · beaks · horn · quill · talon · mane · fur · plumage · bristle
epidermis
Outermost tissue layer
- proteinFolded amino chain
- epithelialSurface-lining tissue type
- cuticleDead skin at nail base
armor
Protective combat covering
- carapaceProtective dorsal exoskeleton
- shellHard outer covering
- exoskeletonExternal skeletal structure
scute · plastron · plate · casque · bony · shield · covering · barrier · integument
scaly
Covered with thin plates
horny · leathery · calloused · thickened · crusty · dry · peeling · scabrous · papery · brittle
thickened
Made more dense
indurated · sclerotic · rigidified · stiffened · solidified · desiccated · laminated · crosslinked · densified · compacted