"outer layer of cells or outer membrane of a metazoan animal," 1853, from ecto- + -derm. Coined by Prussian embryologist Robert Remak (1815-1865). Related: Ectodermal.
Entries linking to ectoderm
ecto-
word-forming element generally meaning "outside, external," before vowels ect-, from Latinized form of Greek adverb ektos "outside, out of; free from; exempt" (opposed to entos), used to form compounds in Greek (such as ektomē "a cutting out"); related to Greek ek, ex "out," from PIE *eghs "out" (see ex-).
-derm
word-forming element meaning "skin," from Greek derma "skin, hide, leather," from PIE root *der- "to split, flay, peel," with derivatives referring to skin and leather.
ectomorph n.
"person with a slim physique and an introverted, thoughtful personality," 1940, coined by American psychologist William H. Sheldon from ectoderm + -morph, from Greek morphē "form, shape; beauty, outward appearance," a word of uncertain etymology. So called for the embryonic ectoderm, which develops the nervous system. Related: Ectomorphic.