Ectodermal refers to the outer layer of cells in an embryo that eventually develops into the skin, hair, nails, and teeth. Synonyms for this word include ectodermic, epidermal, dermal, cuticular, and integumentary. These words are often used to describe the outermost layer of an organism or structure, such as the epidermis of the skin or the cuticle of a plant. The ectodermal layer is responsible for protecting the organism from exterior factors such as UV rays or pathogens, as well as providing sensory functions like touch and temperature regulation. Understanding the synonyms for ectodermal can aid in describing the complexity and diversity of this fundamental layer of an organism.