The word "integumentary" is spelled [ɪnˌtɛɡjʊˈmɛntrɪ]. The first syllable, "in," is pronounced like the word "in." The second syllable, "teg," sounds like "tegg." The third syllable, "u," is pronounced like the letter "u." The fourth syllable, "men," sounds like "men." The fifth syllable, "tar," is pronounced like "tarry." The final syllable, "y," sounds like "ree." Taken together, the phonetic transcription shows the complex spelling of this word, which refers to the layer of skin that protects the body.
Integumentary (adjective) refers to something related to or associated with the integument, which is the outer covering or protective layer of an organism. In biology, the integumentary system is typically associated with the skin, hair, nails, and various glands that are responsible for protecting and regulating the internal environment of an organism.
In humans, the integumentary system serves several important functions. The skin, as the largest organ of the body, provides a protective barrier against external elements, pathogens, and harmful UV radiation. It also regulates body temperature through processes such as sweating and shivering. Additionally, the integumentary system aids in sensory perception, as it houses a variety of receptors for touch, temperature, and pain.
The term "integumentary" can also be extended to organisms other than humans, including animals and plants. In animals, the integumentary system may include features like fur, scales, feathers, or even exoskeletons, depending on the species. For plants, the integumentary structures refer to the outer protective layers, such as the epidermis or the cuticle, which guard against dehydration and pathogen invasion.
Overall, the term "integumentary" encompasses the various external structures and associated functions that provide protection, regulation, and sensory perception for different organisms.
Relating to the integument, cutaneous, dermal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Pert. to or composed of integuments.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "integumentary" is derived from the Latin term "integumentum", which means "a covering" or "to cover". The Latin word is a combination of "in" (not or against) and "tegere" (to cover). Therefore, "integumentary" describes something related to the covering or protection of a body or organ. It specifically refers to the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, nails, and related structures that protect and support the body.