Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ecdysis

Noun

/ˈɛk.dɪ.sɪs/

Definition

The shedding of the outer layers of skin or exoskeleton in certain animals, particularly arthropods and reptiles.

Examples

The snake experienced ecdysis, leaving behind its old skin on the forest floor.
Insects undergo ecdysis several times during their life cycle.
After ecdysis, the newly emerged cicada’s wings were still soft and needed time to harden.

Meaning

Ecdysis primarily refers to the process through which some animals grow by molting, allowing them to replace old and worn-out exoskeletons or skin with new ones.