Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

exuvium

Noun

ɪɡˈzjuːviəm

Definition

The cast-off skin or outer covering of an animal, especially in reference to arthropods such as insects or crustaceans.

Examples

The exuvium of the cicada clung to the tree bark, a testament to its recent transformation.
Researchers often study exuvium to understand the growth patterns of various species.
After the crab molted, we found its exuvium scattered across the sand.

Meaning

Exuvium refers specifically to the remnants left behind after an organism molts or sheds its outer layer, often seen as an indication of growth or transformation.