ecdysis

Meaning

1. The stripping off of an outer layer of skin by snakes and certain other animals; typically in accommodation to growth or wear-and-tear; as distinct from the term "moulting", not in reference to the shedding of hair or feathers.
2. The shedding of an exoskeleton, as in insects and crustaceans.

Synonyms

moulting

molting

moult

molt

exuviation

peeling

decrustation

decortication

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἔκδυσις (ékdusis, “stripping”), from ἐκδύω (ekdúō, “I take off”), from ἐκ (ek, “out”) + δύω (dúō, “I get in”).