: a superficial layer or covering usually of a plant or animal part

Word History

Etymology

New Latin tegmin-, tegmen, from Latin, covering, from tegere to cover — more at thatch

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tegmen was in 1807

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tegmen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tegmen. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: an anatomical layer or cover
specifically : tegmen tympani
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