Exuviate

/ɪɡˈzuːviˌeɪt/ verb

Definition

To shed, slough off, or cast away an outer covering such as skin or shell.

Etymology

From Latin 'exuviare' (to strip off, to shed), derived from 'exuvia' (shed skin). The verb form was created from the noun by the standard Latin process of derivation.

Kelly Says

When a snake exuviates, it's not just losing old skin—it's shedding the evidence of its past, leaving behind a perfect replica of its former self that birds and insects can still use for shelter.

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