exuviae

[ ig-zoo-vee-ee, ik-soo- ]

plural noun

1. the cast skins, shells, or other coverings of animals.

exuviae

/ ɪɡˈzjuːvɪˌiː /

plural noun

1. layers of skin or cuticle shed by animals during ecdysis

Derived Forms

• exˈuvial, adjective

Other Words From

• ex·uvi·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of exuviae¹

First recorded in 1645–55; from Latin, derivative of exuere “to remove, strip off, divest oneself of,” from ex- ex- ¹ + -uere “to put on”

Word History and Origins

Origin of exuviae¹

C17: from Latin: something stripped off (the body), from exuere to strip off

Example Sentences

The whole surface is covered with the small, round, green exuviae of these destructive invaders.

From Project Gutenberg

In this case the title was held by feathered Mercury in graceful flight, displaying the motto "Orbis Australis dulces exuviae."

From Project Gutenberg

There is also some wool, vegetable down, and insect webbing, in which are entangled the exuviae of some caterpillar.

From Project Gutenberg

Our thoughts should soar upward with the butterfly,—not linger with the exuviae that confined him.

From Project Gutenberg

Broken sea shells and other exuviae of marine animals are apparent throughout the whole mass.

From Project Gutenberg