Molted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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molted
[moʊltɪd ]
Definition
shedding skin
Molted refers to the process by which animals, particularly reptiles and birds, shed their outer layer, such as skin or feathers, to make way for new growth. This process can also occur in other creatures, including some insects, where they shed their exoskeleton. Molting is essential for growth and sometimes for reproductive reasons, as it allows for the replacement of worn or damaged anatomical features. The timing and frequency of molting can vary widely among different species.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The snake molted its skin in the warm sun.
- Many birds will molt their feathers in late summer.
- After molting, the crab appeared much bigger.
- The caterpillar molted several times before becoming a butterfly.
Translations
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Origin of 'molted'
The word 'molted' originates from the Latin term 'moltus', which means 'to change'. It entered the English language in the 15th century, deriving from the Old French term 'molt', meaning 'to lose the outer layer'. The process of molting is critical in the life cycles of various species, enabling growth and adaptation to changes in the environment. In different cultures, molting has symbolic connotations as well, often representing renewal and transformation. Its usage has expanded beyond zoology to describe any process of shedding or losing an outer layer, making it a versatile term in both scientific and poetic contexts.