skin
UK[skɪn]US[skɪn]
n
the natural outer layer of tissue that covers the body of a person or an animal
n
the skin of a dead animal with or without its fur, used for making leather, etc.
v
to injure your skin by scraping it against something rough
v
to remove the skin from an animal, a fruit, or a vegetable
Etymology
the word "skin" originates from the old english "scinn," meaning a hide or pelt. it is related to old norse "skinn" (animal skin) and likely has a proto-germanic root "skinną." this term is thought to be derived from the proto-indo-European root "sek-," meaning "to cut," which reflects the ancient practice of cutting or flaying an animal to obtain its hide. over time, the meaning broadened from the removed hide to encompass the natural, living outer covering of humans and animals. its journey from a term for a processed material to one for a biological organ illustrates a common path of semantic evolution.
Analysis
this is a simplex word of old english origin. it functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
she has sensitive skin that burns easily in the sun.
the book was bound in beautiful leather made from goat skin.
be careful not to skin your knees on the rough pavement.