1. The process of shedding or casting off an outer layer, such as skin, shell, or exoskeleton, especially in animals like snakes, insects, and crustaceans.
Usage: Common in biology and zoology contexts; Also called ecdysis or molting
2. The cast-off skin, shell, or other outer covering that is shed during this process.
Usage: The material itself that is discarded

Examples

• The snake's exuviation occurs several times per year as it grows.
• Insects undergo exuviation to increase in size and develop into their next life stage.
• The crab left behind an exuviation on the ocean floor after molting.
• Exuviation is essential for arthropods to grow, since their rigid exoskeletons cannot expand.
• Biologists study exuviation patterns to understand the health and development of wild populations.
• The cicada's exuviation reveals the intricate details of its former exoskeleton.