molt

[ mohlt ]

verb (used without object)

1. (of birds, insects, reptiles, etc.) to cast or shed the feathers, skin, or the like, that will be replaced by a new growth.

verb (used with object)

1. to cast or shed (feathers, skin, etc.) in the process of renewal.

noun

1. an act, process, or an instance of molting.
2. something that is dropped in molting.

molt

/ məʊlt /

verb

1. the usual US spelling of moult

molt

/ mōlt /

1. To shed an outer covering, such as skin or feathers, for replacement by a new growth. Many snakes, birds, and arthropods molt.

Other Words From

• molter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of molt¹

1300–50; earlier mout (with intrusive -l-; fault, assault ), Middle English mouten, Old English -mūtian to change (in bi-mūtian to exchange for) < Latin mūtāre to change; mutate

Example Sentences

Fortunately they are in the same pelage and same stage of molt on the hind legs.

From Project Gutenberg

From Thayers note-book of 1857: Circumstance related to me by the son of Mr. Molt.

From Project Gutenberg

Our specimen had nearly finished with molt and feather growth into adult winter plumage.

From Project Gutenberg

The remaining two adult skins in our series are three-quarters through the molt and are for the most part in fresh winter feather.

From Project Gutenberg

The males at this period among most Ducks deserting their mate to undergo the partial molt before mentioned.

From Project Gutenberg