keratinization
- noun
- /ˌkɛrəˌtɪnɪˈzeɪʃən/
- Specialized
- The process of keratinization is essential for the formation of our nails and hair, providing strength.
Examples
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The effect of glans keratinization on human sexuality has never been studied.
Blog text (8) -
Keratinization occurs when keratinization is deposited in skin cells, making them hard and protective.
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Inflammatory cells, as well as ghost or shadow cells formed by the keratinization of basaloid cells, are sometimes seen (figure).
Academic text (1999) -
Ichthyosis vulgaris refers to a group of cutaneous disorders of keratinization.
Academic text (2007) -
This highly specialized tissue normally covers the glans and protects it from abrasion, drying, callusing (keratinization), and contaminants of all kinds.
Blog text (8) -
In the outer layer of skin, keratinization helps to create a tough barrier against environmental damage.
How Keratinized
- Specialized
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
keratinization = keratinize (transparent) = keratin + ize + ation
Formed by regular successive derivation: keratin + -ize -> keratinize, then + -ation to denote the process.
Etymology
Keratinization comes from keratin, which comes from an old Greek word keras meaning 'horn', and the ending -ation meaning 'a process'. That's why keratinization is the process that makes cells hard and 'horn'-like, as in nails, hair, and the outer layer of the skin.