Pronunciation: [kəɹˈatɪk] (IPA) 
The word "keratic" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" due to its Greek origin. The Greek letter κ (kappa) is used to represent the sound /k/ in words like "keratosis," which means thickening of the skin. The "-ic" suffix indicates that it is an adjective, meaning "relating to keratin," which is a fibrous protein found in the skin, hair, and nails. The IPA phonetic transcription for "keratic" is /kəˈrætɪk/.
"Keratic" is an adjective referring to anything related to keratin, a tough, fibrous protein found in the outermost layers of human skin, hair, nails, and animal feathers, scales, and horns. It is derived from the Greek word "keras," meaning horn.
In a biological sense, the term "keratic" describes properties or processes involving keratin, or substances that contain it. For example, keratic tissues form the protective outer layers of the epidermis, providing structural strength and impermeability. The term may also be used to describe the structures or cells that produce and deposit keratin in organisms, such as keratic cells within hair follicles or keratic scales on certain reptiles.
In a medical context, "keratic" commonly pertains to disorders or conditions related to keratinous tissues. This includes diseases characterized by an abnormal production, structure, or function of keratin, such as keratosis or keratoconus. Additionally, "keratic" may be used in the context of cosmetic or dermatological products that aim to improve the health or appearance of keratin-based structures, as seen in keratic shampoos or keratic treatments for nails.
Ultimately, the term "keratic" encompasses a wide range of references to the biological, structural, and medical aspects of keratin and its associated tissues, providing a useful descriptive adjective within relevant fields of study or practice.
Horny, corneous.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
