Exuvium

/ɪɡˈzuːviəm/ noun

Definition

An alternative or singular form of exuvia; a shed skin, shell, or cast-off covering from an animal.

Etymology

Latin form, singular of 'exuvia,' sometimes used in English scientific contexts as an alternative to the more common exuvia.

Kelly Says

The existence of both 'exuvia' and 'exuvium' shows how Latin and English wrestle with number and singularity differently—one word can be the plural or singular depending on whether you're thinking Latin or English.

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