Definition

The process of hardening the outer layer of certain animals, especially arthropods, using materials other than chitin.

Example

Sclerotization is essential for the protection of arthropods against environmental factors.

Conversation

I read about the process of sclerotization in arthropods recently.

Oh really? What does it involve?

It’s how their cuticle gets hardened, which helps them survive better.

That’s fascinating! Nature has such clever ways to protect itself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sclerotization → It is formed from "sclero-" (from Greek "skleros", meaning hard) and "-tization" (from Latin "-izare", meaning to make or to become). The word describes the process of becoming hard or rigid.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming 'hard' ('sclero-') as it undergoes a process of change ('-tization').

Visually Confused Words