dermis
UK[ˈdɜː.mɪs]US[ˈdɜːr.mɪs]
n
The thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis that forms the true skin, containing blood capillaries, nerve endings, sweat glands, and hair follicles.
Morpheme Breakdown
derm
is
derm
skin
is
noun suffix
Etymology
The word "dermis" is a modern scientific term coined in the 19th century to provide a precise anatomical label. It is built directly from the Greek root "derm-" (δέρμα), meaning "skin" or "hide," which itself can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root der-, meaning "to split, flay, or peel." The suffix "-is" is a common Latin and Greek-derived ending used to form nouns, particularly in biological and medical vocabulary. Thus, the term's literal construction, "skin noun," logically evolved to denote the specific, living inner layer of skin, distinguishing it from the outer "epidermis."
Analysis
Structure: derm (skin) + is (noun suffix)
derm (from Greek 'derma', meaning skin or hide); is (a noun-forming suffix, often used in scientific and medical terminology).
Examples
The dermis contains collagen and elastin fibers that provide strength and elasticity to the skin.
A deep cut that penetrates the dermis often results in scarring.
Dermatologists study disorders affecting both the epidermis and the dermis.