Definition

1. Noun:
   • The process of shedding an outer covering: "moulting" refers to the periodic, natural process in which an animal sheds its outer layer, such as feathers, hair, skin, or shell, to allow for new growth.

Usage

• "Moulting" is used to describe a biological process, primarily in animals like birds, insects, reptiles, and arthropods. It is a standard term in zoology and biology.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The bird's moulting left many feathers on the ground.
  • Snakes are often reclusive during moulting.
  • The crab's moulting is a vulnerable period in its life cycle.

Advanced Usage

• "to be in moult": to be actively undergoing the process of moulting.
  • The penguin is in moult and cannot enter the water to hunt.

Variants and Related Words

• Molt (verb/noun): The primary, more common American English spelling of "moult/moulting".
  • The insect will molt several times before reaching adulthood.
• Ecdysis (noun): A technical, scientific synonym for moulting, especially in arthropods and reptiles.

Synonyms

• Shedding: The general act of casting off an outer layer.
• Sloughing: Often used for the shedding of skin, particularly in reptiles.

Related Phrases

• Moulting season: The time of year when an animal typically undergoes moulting.
  • During moulting season, the deer's coat appears patchy.

Noun

1. periodic shedding of the cuticle in arthropods or the outer skin in reptiles