Definition

The term refers to the shed outer layer or skin of certain animals, particularly insects and crustaceans, that is left behind after molting.

Example

After the insect molted, the exuvium was found on the ground.

Conversation

I found some old exuvium in the garden yesterday.

Really? What does that look like?

It's the leftover skin from insects, kind of fascinating to see.

That sounds cool! Nature always has interesting surprises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exuvium is derived from the Latin "exuviae" (meaning cast-off or shed skin). The prefix "ex-" (meaning out of or from) combined with "vium" (from "vīvere", meaning to live) indicates something that has been shed or removed from a living organism. Thus, exuvium refers to the remains or cast-off skin of an animal, particularly in the context of molting.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'shed' or 'cast off' ('exuviae') from a living creature, which helps you remember that 'exuvium' refers to the remains of skin that has been discarded.

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