The scientific term for molting, specifically referring to the process of shedding the cuticle or exoskeleton in arthropods and other ecdysozoans. This process is controlled by hormones and involves the secretion of a new cuticle beneath the old one.
From Greek 'ekdysis' meaning getting out or emergence, from 'ek' meaning out and 'dyein' meaning to enter or put on. The term captures the idea of the animal emerging from or getting out of its old covering, like emerging from clothing.
Try Another Word