Definition

The process when an adult insect comes out from its pupal case or when a larva hatches from an egg.

Example

The eclosion of the butterfly took place early in the morning.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary about butterflies last night?

Yeah, it was fascinating to watch their eclosion process.

I didn't know it took so long for them to emerge from the chrysalis!

I know, right? Nature is so amazing!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Eclosion is derived from the Latin "eclodere" (meaning to break out or hatch), which is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "claudere" (meaning to close). The word describes the process of an organism breaking out of its shell or casing, particularly in reference to insects hatching from eggs.

Memory Tip

Think of an organism 'breaking out' ('ex-') from something that was 'closed' ('claudere') — that's why eclosion refers to the hatching process.

Visually Confused Words